Blog Layout

What Are The Benefits Of 3D Foot Scanning For Custom Orthotics?

admin • June 23, 2021

3D scanning technology has created new ways of developing custom orthotics over recent years. 3D foot scanners aren’t a necessary stage of modern orthotics, as you can still effectively use plaster of Paris, but they can offer a number of benefits to podiatrists and their patients which can improve the quality of care on offer when prescribing custom orthotics. 

What is a 3D foot scan?

A 3D foot scan uses various technologies to create a digital image or ‘footprint’ of the foot in 3. There are a few different types of 3D foot scanners, with some using lasers or infrared light, and others using a 3D pin matrix to map the contours of the feet.

What are the benefits of a 3D foot scan?

3D foot scans are also extremely accurate – within 0.4mm of accuracy. A 2014 study showed that 3D foot scanners demonstrated more accuracy than many other methods and supported the use of 3D scanners for this reason.



Compared to traditional casting methods, 3D foot scanners are environmentally friendly, resulting in less material waste. They’re also extremely fast and efficient, which enables the podiatrist to spend more time assessing the patient. As it is a digital 3D image of the foot, this allows the foot scan to be emailed to the orthotic laboratory, which may be interstate.

How 3D foot scans are used in orthotics

3D foot scanners allow podiatrists to quickly and accurately scan the feet to create custom orthotic devices tailored to the patient’s individual foot. Not only does this streamline the work of orthotics, but it produces better quality results and a more comfortable solution for the patient.

Get in touch

At Swan Podiatry, our professional podiatrists use the latest 3D scanning technology to produce an accurate digital footprint to ensure a precise and comfortable fit when prescribing custom orthotics. To find out more about our foot scanning and other podiatry services in Darwin, please contact us today.

Author

Cable Mills

Cable Mills is the Senior Podiatrist at Swan Podiatry and Orthotics in Darwin.
He studied Podiatry at Charles Stuart University and has worked in busy podiatry practices in Darwin and Melbourne since graduating in 2011. He has a passion for sport and biomechanics and finds it rewarding to be able to make a difference to people’s lives.


Cable opened the first practice of Swan Podiatry and Orthotics at the beginning of 2016. His areas of expertise are 
sports injuriesorthotic therapygeneral treatmentnail surgery, fracture management and diabetic care.

By admin October 7, 2024
Questions regarding podiatry appointments answered. Do I need a referral? What to bring? What is an EPC? Can I claim my private health insurance on the spot?
Greenhouse Medical — Swan Podiatry and Orthotics in Coconut Grove, NT
By admin October 7, 2024
Swan Podiatry will now be providing Podiatry services at Coolalinga. Within Greenhouse Medical Centre. Call today!
A Woman's Bare Feet Are Standing — Swan Podiatry and Orthotics in Coconut Grove, NT
By admin August 1, 2022
If your pinky toe is hurting more than usual, it might be time to see a professional. Learn the most common causes of sore pinky toes in our latest blog.
A Woman Is Sitting on A Couch Holding Her Foot — Swan Podiatry and Orthotics in Coconut Grove, NT
By admin May 18, 2022
Feet are commonly the first place to show diabetes related complications. For this reason it is important to check your feet daily. Read on to learn more.
A Person 's Foot Is Standing on A Blue Insole — Swan Podiatry and Orthotics in Coconut Grove, NT
By admin February 28, 2022
Experiencing foot pain? Check out our top 5 signs you might need a podiatrist. Don't let foot problems hold you back—schedule a visit today.
A Person Wearing Blue Gloves Is Getting a Massage — Swan Podiatry and Orthotics in Coconut Grove, NT
By admin December 30, 2021
Read our blog to discover how dry needling can help relieve foot pain. To book a consultation to determine if dry needling is right for you, get in touch today!
A Person's Foot Is Being Measured on A Piece of Paper — Swan Podiatry and Orthotics in Coconut Grov
By admin October 5, 2021
In this blog, we will discuss when you should see a podiatrist for a biomechanics assessment. Call Swan Podiatry and Orthotics to learn more.
A Child's Bare Feet Are Standing on A Carpet — Swan Podiatry and Orthotics in Coconut Grove, NT
By admin July 20, 2021
Have you noticed that your child has a flat foot? ➔ Learn what flat feet are, their causes and when your child should see a podiatrist.
A Person Is Sitting on The Floor Touching Their Foot — Swan Podiatry and Orthotics in Coconut Grove, NT
By admin May 12, 2021
👣 Roughly 10% of people worldwide have plantar fasciitis at some point. ➔ Learn about the causes ✔, diagnosis ✔ & treatment ✔ of plantar fasciitis.
A Woman Is Holding Her Back in Pain While Standing on A Sidewalk — Swan Podiatry and Orthotics in Coconut Grove, NT
By admin March 30, 2021
If you suffer from back pain, have you considered custom orthotics? ➔ Learn how orthotics work to support the foot & back and what studies have concluded.
More Posts
Share by: