3D printing in clinical podiatry: a pilot study and review

Abstract

Background Advanced and new technologies within the health sector are aimed to increase efficacy and reduce cost. As a profession, podiatry has seen exponential growth in the use of 3D (three-dimensional) scanning in the clinical domain. It has been used within orthotic manufacture to improve timely responses in both production and rapid dispensing. It has also been used within research to better understand foot structure and function. 3D printing is the next technological step, which will impact the podiatric management of common disorders. This presentation explores its potential uses and describes a new method of prosthetic construction based on 3D printing methodology.