Using Heat to make deflection in ICB orthotic

Using Heat to make deflection in ICB orthotic

This is an amazing demonstration as the practitioner can heat and place a deflection into the ICB Dual Density orthotic and then at a later time remove the deflection. A great feature and reduces the need for practitioners to have to return to their clinic or send to an orthotic Laboratory to complete the orthotic adjustment for the patient.

Heat Molding ICB Orthotics

Before fitting the orthotic device ensure the patient’s shoes are in good condition. If they are badly worn, they should be replaced and any lining or insoles removed ICB Dual Density Heat Moulding orthotics are highly versatile in their application. ICB Orthotics can be custom fitted to the individuals’ foot contours:

1. Attach any forefoot or rearfoot additions (if required) prior to heat moulding.
2. With the patient seated, remove 1 of the orthotics from the footwear (the other orthotic must remain in the shoe and we worn also during the moulding process), and using a heat gun, apply heat to the device. It is best to hold the orthotic at the distal edge, and concentrate the heat on the plantar surface of the arch. Heat for 20 to 30 seconds, distributing the heat by making circular motions with the heat gun, until the words ‘left’ and ‘right’ appear to fade.
3. Insert the heated orthotic into the shoe and tie up any laces or fasteners on the shoe.
4. With the patient still seated locate the subtalar joint, and ask the patient to stand – with equal weight bearing.
5. Place the foot into the subtalar neutral position (if you have used the ICB Anterior Line Method markings as a visual guide). With your other hand apply pressure to the medial arch and rearfoot to ensure correct moulding. Hold this position for 30-40 seconds.
6. Ask the patient to sit down (whilst still maintaining your hand positions). Remove the moulded device and allow to cool for approximately 2 minutes (or until it is cool enough to touch). Then place the moulded orthotic back into the shoe, and repeat the process for the other foot.
7. If a heel lift or metatarsal dome is required, these should be added after the heat moulding process is completed.

You can purchase the range of professional ICB Medical Orthotics at The Physio Shop.

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