Measuring Modular Orthopaedic Footwear

Accurate measurements are a fundamental step in ensuring the optimal fit and comfort of modular orthopaedic footwear. This procedure outlines the steps to follow when measuring a patient for modular orthopaedic footwear.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Equipment

Ensure you have the appropriate measuring tools ready:

• Shoe measuring stick (this type of device is calibrated to show actual sizes of footwear required)
• Foot measuring stick (this type of device is a traditional device and 2.5 sizes are required to be added to gain the correct shoe size.
• Measuring tape

Step 2: Foot Length Measurement

See the lesson materials attached for references

a) Shoe Measuring Stick (For UK Shoe Size):

• Use the shoe measuring stick to determine the exact show size the patient should order.
• Note down the size indicated by the measuring stick.

b) Foot Measuring Stick (For Halo Medical Footwear):

• If using a foot measuring stick, use the foot measuring stick to obtain the foot length.
• Add 2.5 UK shoe sizes to the measured foot length. This accounts for the additional room required for footwear.
• Note down the adjusted size.

Step 3: Circumference Measurements

a) Widest Point of the Foot (B):

• Place the measuring tape around the foot at the widest point, ensuring it’s level with the 1st and 5th metatarsals.
• Record the circumference measurement (B).

b) Instep Circumference (C):

• Measure the circumference at the short heel location. This is situated above the instep measure but below the head of the talus.
• Note down the instep measurement (C).

c) Short Heel Circumference (D):

• Measure the circumference of the instep.
• Record the short heel circumference measurement (D).

Step 4: Width Measurments

a) Foot Width at Widest Point (B1):

• Measure the width of the foot at the same point as measurement B.
• Record the width measurement (B1).

Step 5: Comparing Measurements

• Refer to the provided Halo Medical footwear measurement charts.
• Locate the patient’s shoe size in the top row to identify the corresponding column on the chart.
• For each measurement (B, B1, C, and D), determine which last type’s range the measurement falls within.

Step 6: Adapting Measurements (Optional)

• Individual measurements (B, B1, C, D) can be adapted by up to 9mm to optimise the fit.
• Limit adaptations to a maximum of 2 areas to maintain optimal fitting integrity.

Step 7: Final Evaluation

If the patient’s measurements align well with the last type ranges shown in the Halo modular footwear chart, modular orthopaedic footwear within the selected size and last can be considered.

Step 8: Considering Custom Solutions

If the measurements do not align effectively with the last type ranges, it may suggest that a made-to-measure shoe is necessary to achieve the best fit and comfort for the patient.

By meticulously following this measurement procedure, healthcare professionals can ensure that modular orthopaedic footwear is chosen based on precise measurements, promoting a comfortable, supportive, and customised fit that enhances the patient’s foot health and overall well-being.