NL2031277B1 - Insole for patients having plantar fasciitis - Google Patents
Insole for patients having plantar fasciitis Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- NL2031277B1 NL2031277B1 NL2031277A NL2031277A NL2031277B1 NL 2031277 B1 NL2031277 B1 NL 2031277B1 NL 2031277 A NL2031277 A NL 2031277A NL 2031277 A NL2031277 A NL 2031277A NL 2031277 B1 NL2031277 B1 NL 2031277B1
- Authority
- NL
- Netherlands
- Prior art keywords
- zone
- foot
- insole
- plantar fascia
- elongated
- Prior art date
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43D—MACHINES, TOOLS, EQUIPMENT OR METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING OR REPAIRING FOOTWEAR
- A43D1/00—Foot or last measuring devices; Measuring devices for shoe parts
- A43D1/02—Foot-measuring devices
- A43D1/025—Foot-measuring devices comprising optical means, e.g. mirrors, photo-electric cells, for measuring or inspecting feet
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B17/00—Insoles for insertion, e.g. footbeds or inlays, for attachment to the shoe after the upper has been joined
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
- A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
- A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
- A43B7/1455—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form with special properties
- A43B7/147—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form with special properties for sick or disabled persons, e.g. persons having osteoarthritis or diabetes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
- A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
- A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
- A43B7/1475—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the type of support
- A43B7/1485—Recesses or holes, traversing partially or completely the thickness of the pad
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Epidemiology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Biophysics (AREA)
- Diabetes (AREA)
- Rheumatology (AREA)
- Footwear And Its Accessory, Manufacturing Method And Apparatuses (AREA)
Abstract
The invention relates to an insole arranged for use in a shoe receiving a foot having a plantar fascia, comprising: a bottom surface shaped to cooperate with at least a part of an inner surface of the shoe; a top surface shaped to cooperate with at least a 5 part of the sole of the foot; and an elongated relief zone arranged to the top surface; wherein the elongated relief zone during use in the shoe is aligned with the plantar fascia, and the elongated relief zone is sized and formed for relieving the tonus exerted on the plantar fascia. 10 Figure 4
Description
INSOLE FOR PATIENTS HAVING PLANTAR FASCIITIS
The invention relates to an insole suitable for relieving and even healing plantar fasciitis. The invention also relates to a method for producing such an insole.
The invention also relates to use of such an insole.
People walk and run in different ways. Sometimes a limitation causes that the walking and running requires more energy as well as that the walking and running may cause an injury in other parts of the musculoskeletal system. A common issue with runners is an injury of the plantar fascia, such as plantar fasciitis according to some more appropriately named plantar fasciosis also known as heel spur.
CA2287110A1 discloses a two-piece orthotic insert assembly. A post member is fixedly mounted in the heel end of a shoe, and has a generally concave bearing surface. A separate plate member is placed in the shoe so that the heel end thereof rests in the post, the heel cup of the plate member having a generally convex lower bearing surface which engages the concave bearing surface in the post member so as to permit a predetermined range of pivoting motion between the two pieces. The concave upper bearing surface of the post member defines a generally U-shaped bearing area which supports the rear foot portion of the plate at a predetermined angle for heel strike. Following heel strike, the plate member pivots so as to permit a controlled amount of pronation of the foot. A disadvantage of this two-piece orthotic insert assembly is that it may move inadvertently.
WO2020221408A1 discloses an insole, which in use provides support to a user's foot and ankle position with respect to pronation/eversion to achieve a neutral foot alignment, and with respect to supination/inversion to achieve relief of the foot and the structures of the foot, while wearing the footwear provided with the insole. The present invention addresses this by providing an insole for footwear comprising a support shell for adjusting and supporting a foot position, where the support shell substantially is formed as a U-shape, where the support shell has an inner surface, where in use the inner surface is facing the foot, and an outer surface, where in use the outer surface is facing the foot wear, where a heel part of said support shell's inner surface is formed complementary to a part of the heel of the foot, where a medical side of said support shell's inner surface is complementary to an inner side of said foot, and where a lateral side of said support shell is complementary to an outer side of said foot, where said inner side and said outer side of support shell extends substantially parallel from the heel part, and thereby provides a recess in the U-shape, where in use the user's foot rests on the U-shaped support shell. A disadvantage of this insole is that the plantar fascia is not relieved properly. A further disadvantage of this insole is that the U-shape, the width of the U-shape as well as the position is incorrect for relieving the plantar fascia.
An object of the invention is to overcome one or more of the disadvantages mentioned above.
According to a first aspect of the invention, an insole arranged for use in a shoe receiving a foot having a plantar fascia, comprising: a bottom surface shaped to cooperate with at least a part of an inner surface of the shoe; a top surface shaped to cooperate with at least a part of the sole of the foot; and an elongated relief zone arranged to the top surface; wherein the elongated relief zone during use in the shoe is aligned with the plantar fascia, and the elongated relief zone is sized and formed for relieving the tonus exerted on the plantar fascia.
An insole may be used to temporarily or permanently correct the position of a foot. Most of the time the insole is used after a problem occurs while walking or running. Insoles may also be used during more agile sports, such as soccer or tennis.
A common problem during walking or running is plantar fasciitis also known as heel spur. As recent research shows indications that inflammation of the connective tissue supporting the arch of the foot may not be the dominant factor, some propose to use the term plantar fasciosis.
The plantar fascia is an elongated structure supporting the arch of the foot.
The arch of the foot is formed by several bones. The tips of the arch are linked to each other by the plantar fascia. In a cross-sectional view, this part of the foot may be modelled as a bow. The arch of the foot forms the limbs of the bow, the plantar fascia is modelled as the string of the bow. When the foot is in contact with the ground while walking or running, the arch of the foot will flatten thereby placing a longitudinal force on and stretching the plantar fascia thus adding to the tonus of the plantar fascia. The elongated relief zone is aligned with the plantar fascia such that the part of the foot sole associated with the plantar fascia may be pressed into the elongated relief zone.
As the tips of the arch of the foot are pressed into the elongated relief zone, these tips are not or at least less forced away from each other. In contrast, a typical sole or insole will force the tips of the arch outwards causing an additional elongated force or adding tothe tonus, which is in the case of plantar fasciitis an excessive elongated force or tonus causing pain in the foot sole. Furthermore, when the tips of the arch of the foot are pressed into the elongated relief zone, the plantar fascia is not or minimally bent by the insole. In contrast, a typical sole or insole will force the plantar fascia to bent along the surface of the sole or insole such that an additional elongated force or tonus is exerted on the plantar fascia, which is in the case of plantar fasciitis an excessive additional elongated force causing pain in the foot sole. Typically the combination of both effects, minimizing the force forcing the tips away from each other and minimizing the bending of the plantar fascia, provide the effect of reducing the elongated force or tonus on the plantar fascia. The reduced elongated force or tonus and thus the insole provides the effect of relieving the plantar fascia such that pain is relieved during a plantar fasciitis. Furthermore, apart from pain relief, the reduced elongated force or tonus and thus the insole may provide the effect of shortening the time to overcome the plantar fasciitis.
According to another aspect of the invention a method for a method for producing an insole arranged for use in a shoe receiving a foot having a plantar fascia, comprising: scanning the foot; identifying an area on the foot sole whereunder the plantar fascia is present; modelling the insole based on the scanning and identifying; printing the modelled insole comprising: a bottom surface shaped to cooperate with at least a part of an inner surface of the shoe; a top surface shaped to cooperate with at least a part of the sole of the foot; and an elongated relief zone arranged to the top surface; wherein the elongated relief zone during use in the shoe is aligned with the plantar fascia, and the elongated relief zone is sized and formed for relieving the tonus exerted on the plantar fascia. The method provides the advantages as mentioned for the insole. The scanning step may be a 2D scan, but typically is a 3D scan of the foot, such that the insole matches the contour of the foot where necessary and is adapted in specific areas for relieving the tonus exerted on the plantar fascia.
According to another aspect of the invention the use of an insole according to any of the embodiments of the insole. The use provides the advantages as mentioned for the insole and method of producing the insole.
According to another aspect of the invention the production, such as machining and/or printing, an insole according to any of the embodiments of the insole.
The production provides the advantages as mentioned for the insole and use of the insole.
In an embodiment, the plantar facia comprises a central plantar fascia; and the elongated relief zone is aligned with the central plantar fascia. The central plantar facia is typically the tendon stretching out between the two ends of the food arch. The central plantar is typically the tendon irritated, infected and/or causing the pain related to plantar fasciitis. Aligning the elongated relief zone with the central plantar fascia provides the advantage of providing the relief at the location of the tendon affected by the plantar fasciitis.
In an embodiment, the foot has a ball of the foot; and the elongated relief zone widens towards the ball of the foot. The plantar fascia, specifically the central plantar fascia, starts relatively narrow at the calcaneal and widens towards the ball of the foot. The elongated relief zone advantageously mimics the shape of the plantar fascia, specifically the central plantar fascia, for providing the relief to the plantar fascia.
In an embodiment, the elongated relief zone is arranged to a medial region of the foot. The medial region of the foot is the region where the plantar fascia is located. Arranging the elongated relief zone to the medial region, specifically a part of the medial region, advantageously provides the relief at a location for relieving and in many cases solving and/or curing plantar fasciitis.
In an embodiment, the foot has a foot arch, such as a longitudinal arch such as a medial longitudinal arch; the insole comprises a support zone arranged to and shaped for supporting the foot arch; and the elongated relief zone intersects the support zone for relieving the plantar fascia. The longitudinal arch of the foot, typically the medial longitudinal arch of the foot, is advantageously supported while the plantar fascia is relieved. This arch is supported by supporting the support zone. The support zone supports the parts of the foot placed onto the insole which parts are not associated with the plantar fascia. The support zone typically supports the parts of the foot surrounding, adjoining and/or adjacent to zone where the plantar fascia is located,
which is associated with the elongated relief zone. This surrounding, adjoining and/or adjacent to may be typed and/or generalized in intersects.
In a further embodiment, the elongated relief zone stretches substantially across the length of the longitudinal arch. The longitudinal arch is the arch in the foot 5 having at one end of the arch the calcaneal and on the other end of the arch the ball of the foot. The tendon plantar fascia stretches the length between the two ends of the longitudinal arch. The elongated relief zone advantageously stretches the length of the longitudinal arch or may be selected slightly longer for providing relief to the plantar fascia.
In an embodiment, the length of the elongated relief zone is preferably within the range of 20 to 200 mm, preferably 30 to 150 mm, more preferably 40 to 120 mm, most preferably 50 to 100 mm. The length of the longitudinal arch is, depending on the foot size typically in the aforementioned range. The elongated relief zone advantageously matches the length of the longitudinal arch or may be selected slightly longer such that proper relief is provided to the plantar fascia.
In an embodiment, the foot comprises a calcaneal, more specifically a medial calcaneal region and a transverse arch, more specifically a medial transverse arch region; the elongated relief zone stretches from substantially the calcaneal, preferably the medial calcaneal region towards substantially the transverse arch, preferably the medial transverse arch region; and the length of the elongated relief zone is preferably within the range of 20 to 200 mm, preferably 30 to 150 mm, more preferably 40 to 120 mm, most preferably 50 to 100 mm. The elongated relief zone advantageously matches the length of the longitudinal arch or may be selected slightly longer such that proper relief is provided to the plantar fascia.
In a further embodiment, the support zone surrounds or at least partly surrounds the elongated relief zone and is shaped for supporting the foot arch. The longitudinal arch of the foot, typically the medial longitudinal arch of the foot, is advantageously supported while the plantar fascia is relieved. This arch is supported by the support zone. The support zone supports the parts of the foot placed onto the insole which parts are not associated with the plantar fascia. The support zone typically supports the parts of the foot surrounding, adjoining and/or adjacent to the zone where the plantar fascia is, which is associated with the elongated relief zone.
In an embodiment, the elongated relief zone has a higher flexibility compared to the support zone. This higher flexibility allows for the elongated relief zone to be depressed more relative to the support zone when the same pressure is exerted on the surfaces, such that the part of the foot associated with the plantar fascia may be pressed more into the insole compared to the part of the foot not associated with the plantar fascia. This combination of flexibilities provides relief to the plantar fascia.
In a further embodiment, the elongated relief zone protrudes relative to the support zone. The combination of the protruding relief zone and the higher flexibility provides the advantage of a cushion for the plantar fascia providing the relief for the plantar fascia.
In a further embodiment, the elongated relief zone is recessed relative to the support zone. The space, especially in height, advantageously provides room for the part of the foot associated with the plantar fascia to sink into the insole, specifically relative to the region supporting the part of the foot not associated with the plantar fascia. The combination of the optionally or typically higher flexibility of the relief zone and the recessed relief zone provides the further advantage of allowing the part of the foot associated with the plantar fascia to sink even more into the insole relative to the part of the foot not associated with the plantar fascia.
In a further embodiment, the elongated relief zone has a substantially equal flexibility compared to the support zone. Equal flexibility advantageously provides that the insole may be made of the same material typically having the structure for simplifying the manufacturing of the insole.
In a further embodiment, the elongated relief zone has a lower flexibility compared to the support zone. The lower flexibility, and/or higher rigidness or stiffness of the elongated relief zone combined with a recessed relief zone advantageously provides structure to the insole at a location of reduced thickness while still providing space for the part of the foot associated with the plantar fascia to sink in. The lower flexibility, and/or higher rigidness or stiffness is typically associated with more durable and thus a longer useful life of the insole.
In a further embodiment, the elongated relief zone gradually transits from recessed to level relative to the support zone towards both its ends. The ends of the longitudinal arch in the foot are not abrupt. The elongated relief zone advantageously matches this gradual transition. Furthermore, an abrupt end of the elongated relief zone may cause irritation or stress points in the foot, which are advantageously prevented with the gradual transition.
In a further embodiment, the insole comprises a side transition zone arranged to the top surface and between the elongated relief zone and the support zone providing a gradual transition; and the side transition zone has a width in a range of 0.1 to 2 mm, preferably 0.2 to 1.5 mm, more preferably 0.25 to 1 mm, most preferably 0.3 to 0.7 mm. The sides of the longitudinal arch in the foot are typically not abrupt. The elongated relief zone advantageously matches this gradual transition.
Furthermore, an abrupt side of the elongated relief zone may cause irritation or stress points in the foot, which are advantageously prevented with the gradual transition.
In a further embodiment, the insole comprises an anterior transition zone arranged to the top surface and at the end of the elongated relief zone providing a gradual transition; and the anterior transition zone advantageously has a width in a range of 5 to 30 mm, preferably 5 to 25 mm, more preferably 5 to 20 mm, most preferably 5 to 15 mm.
In a further embodiment, the insole comprises a posterior transition zone arranged to the top surface and between the elongated relief zone and the support zone providing a gradual transition; and the posterior transition zone advantageously has a width in a range of 0.1 to 2 mm, preferably 0.2 to 1.5 mm, more preferably 0.25 to 1 mm, most preferably 0.3 to 0.7 mm.
In a further embodiment, the width of the anterior transition zone is wider compared to the side transition zone and/or the posterior transition zone advantageously matching or typically just wider to the width of the transition zones of the plantar fascia inside the foot.
In an embodiment, the bottom surface during use is in contact with the inner surface of the shoe. The insole is typically arranged in the shoe without additional soles in the shoe. Typically, the shoe comprises an inner sole which may be maintained or not during the use of the insole.
In an embodiment, the foot comprises a heel area and a midfoot area; and the insole cooperates at least with the heel area and the midfoot area. The heel area is advantageously part of the insole such that the insole is well positionable in the shoe.
The positioning of the insole is advantageous for aligning the elongated relief zone with the part of the foot associated with the plantar fascia.
In an embodiment, the elongated relief zone is sized and formed for providing less counterpressure compared to surrounding insole zone. The reduced counterpressure allows the elongated relief zone to be depressed more when a foot is resting on the produced insole. The more depression of the elongated relief zone advantageously provides relief to the plantar fascia.
In an embodiment of the production method, identifying the area on the foot sole whereunder the plantar fascia is present is based on the scanned foot. A typical testis when the foot is placed onto the ground and the toes are raised to a maximum position. The elongated arch of the foot is then typically also at its maximum height.
The part of the foot associated with the plantar fascia is then showing by protruding from the underside of the foot relative to the surrounding parts of the foot. Scanning the foot in this position advantageously provides the option to identify the part of the foot associated with the plantar fascia. Furthermore, preferably also the part of the foot not associated with the plantar fascia may be identified and thus may be supported for advantageously relieving the plantar fascia.
In an embodiment of the production method, the method comprises the steps of: marking the area on the foot sole whereunder the plantar fascia is present, preferably based on palpating the plantar fascia; and aligning the marking and the scanned foot. Palpating is an accurate way for locating the plantar fascia and determining which part of the foot sole is associated with the plantar fascia. The markings advantageously help during production to adapt the insole for relieving the tonus exerted on the plantar fascia.
The invention will be apparent from and elucidated further with reference to the embodiments described by way of example in the following description and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 schematically shows a bottom view of a foot with markings;
Figure 2 schematically shows a bottom anatomical view of a foot; and
Figure 3 schematically shows a side X-ray view of a foot;
Figure 4 shows a photo of an insole according to the invention; and
Figure 5 shows a photo of a plaster impression of a foot.
The figures are purely diagrammatic and not drawn to scale. In the figures, elements which correspond to elements already described may have the same reference numerals.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS ome longitudinal arch posterior end of longitudinal arch anterior end of longitudinal arch indication of plantar fascia exerted force on longitudinal arch 331, 332 resulting motion of the longitudinal ends
The following figures may detail different embodiments. Embodiments can be combined to reach an enhanced or improved technical effect. These combined embodiments may be mentioned explicitly throughout the text, may be hint upon in the text or may be implicit.
Figure 1 schematically shows a bottom view of a foot 100 with markings.
The foot comprises a foot sole 101, a heel 102, and a ball of the foot 103. The foot further comprises a region 110 associated with the plantar fascia. This region is bordered by a lateral marking 113 and a medial marking 115 on the outside and the inside respectively of the foot sole. The lateral marking indicates a lateral transition zone 114 of the region of the foot sole associated with the plantar fascia to other internal structures of the foot. The medial marking indicates a medial transition zone 116 of the region associated with the plantar fascia to other internal structures of the foot. The anterior ends of the markings indicate the anterior transition zone 111 of the region associated with the plantar fascia to other internal structures of the foot. The posterior ends of the markings indicate the posterior transition zone 112 of the region associated with the plantar fascia to other internal structures of the foot, such as the calcaneal.
The region of the foot sole associated with the plantar fascia is typically arranged to the elongated relief zone 140 of the insole in this figure only indicated as to its location relative to the plantar fascia. Further, it is noted that the markings are closer to each other at the posterior end compared to the anterior ends of the markings. This fanning out of the markings is typical according to the invention.
Figure 2 schematically shows a bottom anatomical view of a foot 100. The foot comprises a plantar fascia 120, a calcaneal 130, and a big toe 104. The plantar fascia comprises a central plantar fascia 121, and a medial plantar fascia 122. The foot further comprises a transition 131 from the calcaneal and the plantar fascia. Plantar fasciitis is typically at the transition of the calcaneal to the plantar fascia or the part of the plantar fascia proximal to the calcaneal.
Figure 3 schematically shows a side X-ray 300 view of a foot 100. In the X- ray a longitudinal arch 310 is shown with a yellow line. In the X-ray an approximate location of the plantar fascia is indicated with a red dotted line 320. The longitudinal arch comprises a posterior end 311 and an anterior end 312. The respective ends of the longitudinal arch are attached to the plantar fascia, more specific predominantly the central plantar fascia. When the foot is placed on the ground and the body weight is pressing via the leg on this foot, this weight will exert a force on the longitudinal arch as indicated by a first arrow 330. The exerted force on the longitudinal arch will flatten the arch. The flattening of the arch will cause a motion of the ends of the longitudinal arch away from each other as indicated by the arrows 331, 332. As the plantar fascia is attached to the ends of the longitudinal arch, this motion of the ends will increase the tonus of the plantar fascia. The tonus of the plantar fascia may be seen as the longitudinal force exerted on the plantar fascia.
Figure 4 shows a photo of an insole 50 according to the invention. The insole is shown with markings. The insole comprises a bottom surface, which is not shown. The insole comprises a top surface 55. The insole further comprises an elongated relief zone 60. The elongated relief zone is arranged to the top surface. The elongated relief zone is sized and formed for relieving the tonus exerted on the plantar fascia. The lateral and medial edges of the elongated relief zone are marked with dotted lines 113, 115, respectively. The anterior ends of the markings indicate the anterior transition zone 111 of the region associated with the plantar fascia to other internal structures of the foot. The posterior ends of the markings indicate the posterior transition zone 112 of the region associated with the plantar fascia to other internal structures of the foot, such as the calcaneal. The insole may comprise a support zone 65. The support zone may further extend 65’, 65”, 65”. Figure 4 shows furthermore that the elongated relief zone widens towards the ball of the foot and/or the tooths. It will be clear to the skilled person that Figure 4 showing an insole is related to Figure 1 showing a foot sole.
Figure 5 shows a photo of a plaster impression of a foot 100 with markings.
The foot comprises a foot sole 101, a heel 102, and a ball of the foot 103. The foot further comprises a region 110 associated with the plantar fascia. This region is bordered by a lateral marking 113 and a medial marking 115 on the outside and the inside respectively of the foot sole. The lateral marking indicates a lateral transition zone 114 of the region of the foot sole associated with the plantar fascia to other internal structures of the foot. The medial marking indicates a medial transition zone 116 of the region associated with the plantar fascia to other internal structures of the foot. The anterior ends of the markings indicate the anterior transition zone 111 of the region associated with the plantar fascia to other internal structures of the foot. The posterior ends of the markings indicate the posterior transition zone 112 of the region associated with the plantar fascia to other internal structures of the foot, such as the calcaneal.
The region of the foot sole associated with the plantar fascia is typically arranged to the elongated relief zone 140 of the insole in this figure only indicated as to its location relative to the plantar fascia. Further, it is noted that the markings are closer to each other at the posterior end compared to the anterior ends of the markings. This fanning out of the markings is typical according to the invention.
The plaster impression may be used for production of a personalised insole.
Alternatively, the foot may be scanned for production of an insole with printing, such as 3D printing. The production may comprise modelling based on scanning the foot, specifically the foot sole. The modelling may involve applying corrections to the model such that the to be produced insole reliefs the plantar fascia. The applied correction may involve adding a layer to the modelled foot sole. The to be produced insole may be seen as an inversion or negative of the modelled foot sole.
The elongated relief zone typically stretches out from the heel bone or calcaneus towards the big toe substantially over the length of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is typically medial attached to the calcaneus. Therefore, the elongated relief zone at the end of the calcaneus is typically also medial positioned and typically not to the centre line of the foot sole.
The maximum height of the longitudinal arch of the foot may be measured with a test. The test involves placing the foot sole of a foot on a flat surface. The toes of the foot are then raised to its maximum height without the rest of the foot sole loosing contact with the flat surface. The height of the longitudinal arch in this position is the maximum height of the longitudinal arch of the foot, this may be named the maximum dorsal flexion. The maximum height may be used as an indication for the thickness of the support zone or support zones surrounding the elongated relief zone.
The thickness of the support zone may be related to the thickness of the elongated relief zone in an embodiment, such as the depth of a recessed elongated relief zone.
The recessed elongated relief zone may be typed as a gulley, or trench. The depth of the recessed elongated relief zone should not be too shallow relative to the support zone as it does not provide the needed relief to the plantar fascia. The depth of the recessed elongated relief zone should not be too deep relative to the support zone as the part of the foot may then sink into the gulley and/or is not supported enough. The height of the longitudinal arch may be corrected or adjusted before translating this height to an insole in case of for example a flatfoot or a bow foot. This deviation from the normal may be corrected for with the insole as well.
The depth of the recessed elongated relief zone is the highest at the middle of the longitudinal arch and becomes less deep at the ends of the longitudinal arch for matching the shape of the longitudinal arch. At the ends of the longitudinal arch the elongated relief zone gradually or smoothly transits or ends, such as the recessed elongated relief zone gradually or smoothly becomes shallower. Although the sides of the elongated relief zone are also gradual or smooth, the transition on the sides of the elongated relief zone are typically more abrupt or less wide compared to the transition on the ends of the elongated relief zone. This difference between transition between the sides and the ends of the elongated relief zone mimics the difference in transition of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia also ends more abruptly in a medial and lateral direction compared to the anterior and posterior directions.
It is further notable that the tonus of the plantar fascia during this test is minimized or at least reduced as the ends of the longitudinal arch are brought closer together. The minimized or at least reduced tonus during the test may be seen as mimicked with the insole according to the invention. This minimum or at least reduced tonus of the plantar fascia provides the relief sought for solving, curing, or overcoming the plantar fasciitis. This minimum or at least reduced tonus of the plantar fascia at least prevents intensifying, worsening or aggravating the plantar fasciitis. As the plantar fascia is fanning out from the calcaneus towards the toes, the elongated relief zone typically is fanning out in the same way to match the shape of the plantar fascia.
It is noted that the order of the words plantar fascia may be swapped to fascia plantar without changing its meaning. It is not uncommon that the plantar fasciitis goes together with an inflammation of the Achilles tendon. Therefore, in a particular embodiment of the insole the heel part of the insole may be increased in thickness to relief the Achilles tendon while the insole also reliefs or reduces the tonus of the plantar fascia. Tests have shown that an insole according to the invention may provide relief of plantar fasciitis typically within 4 weeks and typically pain problems or complaints are gone in 6 weeks. It is advised not to stop directly using the insole but gradually minimize the use of the insole until the insole is redundant.
Examples, embodiments or optional features, whether indicated as non- limiting or not, are not to be understood as limiting the invention as claimed. It should be noted that the figures are purely diagrammatic and not drawn to scale. In the figures, elements which correspond to elements already described may have the same reference numerals.
The term “substantially” herein, such as in “substantially all emission” or in “substantially consists”, will be understood by the person skilled in the art. The term “substantially” may also include embodiments with “entirely”, “completely”, “all”, etc.
Hence, in embodiments the adjective substantially may also be removed. Where applicable, the term “substantially” may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%. The term “comprise” includes also embodiments wherein the term “comprises” means “consists of”.
The term "functionally” will be understood by, and be clear to, a person skilled in the art. The term “substantially” as well as “functionally” may also include embodiments with “entirely”, “completely”, “all”, etc. Hence, in embodiments the adjective functionally may also be removed. When used, for instance in “functionally parallel’, a skilled person will understand that the adjective “functionally” includes the term substantially as explained above. Functionally in particular is to be understood to include a configuration of features that allows these features to function as if the adjective “functionally” was not present. The term “functionally” is intended to cover variations in the feature to which it refers, and which variations are such that in the functional use of the feature, possibly in combination with other features it relates to in the invention, that combination of features is able to operate or function. For instance, if an antenna is functionally coupled or functionally connected to a communication device, received electromagnetic signals that are receives by the antenna can be used by the communication device. The word “functionally” as for instance used in “functionally parallel” is used to cover exactly parallel, but also the embodiments that are covered by the word “substantially” explained above. For instance, “functionally parallel’ relates to embodiments that in operation function as if the parts are for instance parallel. This covers embodiments for which it is clear to a skilled person that it operates within its intended field of use as if it were parallel.
Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.
The devices or apparatus herein are amongst others described during operation. As will be clear to the person skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to methods of operation or devices in operation.
It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. Use of the verb "to comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The invention may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements, and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In the device or apparatus claims enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.
The invention further applies to an apparatus or device comprising one or more of the characterising features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings. The invention further pertains to a method or process comprising one or more of the characterising features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings.
The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined in order to provide additional advantages.
Furthermore, some of the features can form the basis for one or more divisional applications.
1. Insole (50) arranged for use in a shoe receiving a foot having a plantar fascia, comprising: - a bottom surface shaped to cooperate with at least a part of an inner surface of the shoe; - a top surface (55) shaped to cooperate with at least a part of the sole of the foot; and - an elongated relief zone (60) arranged to the top surface; wherein the elongated relief zone during use in the shoe is aligned with the plantar fascia, and the elongated relief zone is sized and formed for relieving the tonus exerted on the plantar fascia. 2. Insole according to the preceding claim, wherein the plantar facia comprises a central plantar fascia; and wherein the elongated relief zone is aligned with the central plantar fascia. 3. Insole according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the foot has a ball of the foot; and wherein the elongated relief zone widens towards the ball of the foot. 4. Insole according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the elongated relief zone is arranged to a medial region of the foot. 5. Insole according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the foot has a foot arch, such as a longitudinal arch such as a medial longitudinal arch; wherein the insole comprises a support zone (65, 65’, 65”, 65”) arranged to and shaped for supporting the foot arch; and wherein the elongated relief zone intersects the support zone for relieving the plantar fascia. 6. Insole according to the preceding claim, wherein the elongated relief zone stretches substantially across the length of the longitudinal arch; and/or wherein the length of the elongated relief zone is preferably within the range of 20 to 200 mm, preferably 30 to 150 mm, more preferably 40 to 120 mm, most preferably 50 to 100 mm.
7. Insole according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein the foot comprises a calcaneal, more specifically a medial calcaneal region and a transverse arch, more specifically a medial transverse arch region;
wherein the elongated relief zone stretches from substantially the calcaneal, preferably the medial calcaneal region towards substantially the transverse arch,
preferably the medial transverse arch region; and wherein the length of the elongated relief zone is preferably within the range of 20 to 200 mm, preferably 30 to 150 mm, more preferably 40 to 120 mm, most preferably 50 to 100 mm.
8. Insole according to any of the preceding claims 5-7, wherein the support zone surrounds or at least partly surrounds the elongated relief zone and is shaped for supporting the foot arch.
9. Insole according to the preceding claim, wherein the elongated relief zone has a higher flexibility compared to the support zone.
10. Insole according to the preceding claim, wherein the elongated relief zone protrudes relative to the support zone.
11. Insole according to any of the preceding claims 5-9, wherein the elongated relief zone is recessed relative to the support zone.
12. Insole according to the preceding claim, wherein the elongated relief zone has a lower and/or substantially equal flexibility compared to the support zone.
13. Insole according to any of the preceding claims 11-12, wherein the elongated relief zone gradually transits from recessed to level relative to the support zone towards both its ends.
14. Insole according to any of the preceding claims 5-13, wherein the insole comprises a side transition zone arranged to the top surface and between the elongated relief zone and the support zone providing a gradual transition; and wherein the side transition zone has a width in a range of 0.1 to 2 mm, preferably 0.2 to 1.5 mm, more preferably 0.25 to 1 mm, most preferably 0.3 to 0.7 mm. 15. Insole according to any of the preceding claims 5-14,
wherein the insole comprises an anterior transition zone (111) arranged to the top surface and at the end of the elongated relief zone providing a gradual transition; and wherein the anterior transition zone has a width in a range of 5 to 30 mm, preferably 5 to 25 mm, more preferably 5 to 20 mm, most preferably 5 to 15 mm.
16. Insole according to any of the preceding claims 5-15,
wherein the insole comprises a posterior transition zone (112) arranged to the top surface and between the elongated relief zone and the support zone providing a gradual transition; and wherein the posterior transition zone has a width in a range of 0.1 to 2 mm, preferably 0.2 to 1.5 mm, more preferably 0.25 to 1 mm, most preferably 0.3 to 0.7 mm.
17. Insole according to the preceding claim, also depending on claims 14 and 15,
wherein the width of the anterior transition zone is wider compared to the side transition zone and/or the posterior transition zone.
18. Insole according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bottom surface during use is in contact with the inner surface of the shoe.
19. Insole according to any of the preceding claims,
wherein the foot comprises a heel area and a midfoot area; and wherein the insole cooperates at least with the heel area and the midfoot area.
20. Method for producing an insole arranged for use in a shoe receiving a foot having a plantar fascia, comprising:
- scanning the foot;
- identifying an area on the foot sole whereunder the plantar fascia is present;
- modelling the insole based on the scanning and identifying;
- printing the modelled insole comprising:
a bottom surface shaped to cooperate with at least a part of an inner surface of the shoe;
a top surface shaped to cooperate with at least a part of the sole of the foot; and an elongated relief zone arranged to the top surface;
wherein the elongated relief zone during use in the shoe is aligned with the plantar fascia, and the elongated relief zone is sized and formed for relieving the tonus exerted on the plantar fascia.
21. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the elongated relief zone is sized and formed for providing less counterpressure compared to surrounding insole zone.
22. Method according to any of the preceding claims 20-21,
wherein identifying the area on the foot sole whereunder the plantar fascia is present is based on the scanned foot; or wherein the method comprises the steps of:
- marking the area on the foot sole whereunder the plantar fascia is present, preferably based on palpating the plantar fascia; and
- aligning the marking and the scanned foot.
23. Use of an insole according to any of the preceding claims 1-19. 24. Production, such as machining and/or printing, an insole according to any of the preceding claims 1-19.
Claims (24)
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2031277A NL2031277B1 (en) | 2022-03-15 | 2022-03-15 | Insole for patients having plantar fasciitis |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2031277A NL2031277B1 (en) | 2022-03-15 | 2022-03-15 | Insole for patients having plantar fasciitis |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| NL2031277B1 true NL2031277B1 (en) | 2023-09-27 |
Family
ID=82196785
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2031277A NL2031277B1 (en) | 2022-03-15 | 2022-03-15 | Insole for patients having plantar fasciitis |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| NL (1) | NL2031277B1 (en) |
Citations (12)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5203793A (en) * | 1989-09-20 | 1993-04-20 | Lyden Robert M | Conformable cushioning and stability device for articles of footwear |
| US5611153A (en) * | 1994-05-12 | 1997-03-18 | Schering-Plough Healthcare Products, Inc. | Insole for heel pain relief |
| WO1999053788A1 (en) * | 1998-04-17 | 1999-10-28 | Payless Shoesource, Inc. | Insole insert for footwear |
| CA2287110A1 (en) | 1998-10-26 | 2000-04-26 | Northwest Podiatric Laboratory, Inc. | Orthotic assembly having stationary heel post and separate orthotic plate |
| US6604301B1 (en) * | 2000-07-10 | 2003-08-12 | II Arthur Manoli | Shoe sole insert |
| US20170295883A1 (en) * | 2016-04-14 | 2017-10-19 | Mark Frey | Shoe Insert |
| US20190133250A1 (en) * | 2017-11-03 | 2019-05-09 | Toni D'Alessandro | Orthopedic insoles |
| US20190261732A1 (en) * | 2018-02-26 | 2019-08-29 | Hbn Shoe, Llc | Device and method of constructing shoes |
| WO2020013640A1 (en) * | 2018-07-12 | 2020-01-16 | 뉴스텝 주식회사 | Shoes for plantar fasciitis pain alleviation and treatment |
| US20200221818A1 (en) * | 2019-01-14 | 2020-07-16 | Paul David Edwards | Apparatus and method for plantar fasciitis |
| US10806218B1 (en) * | 2019-12-06 | 2020-10-20 | Singularitatem Oy | Method for manufacturing a customized insole and a system therefor |
| WO2020221408A1 (en) | 2019-05-02 | 2020-11-05 | Pinpoint Biomechanics Holding Ivs | Anti pronation/eversion/heel spur insole |
-
2022
- 2022-03-15 NL NL2031277A patent/NL2031277B1/en active
Patent Citations (12)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5203793A (en) * | 1989-09-20 | 1993-04-20 | Lyden Robert M | Conformable cushioning and stability device for articles of footwear |
| US5611153A (en) * | 1994-05-12 | 1997-03-18 | Schering-Plough Healthcare Products, Inc. | Insole for heel pain relief |
| WO1999053788A1 (en) * | 1998-04-17 | 1999-10-28 | Payless Shoesource, Inc. | Insole insert for footwear |
| CA2287110A1 (en) | 1998-10-26 | 2000-04-26 | Northwest Podiatric Laboratory, Inc. | Orthotic assembly having stationary heel post and separate orthotic plate |
| US6604301B1 (en) * | 2000-07-10 | 2003-08-12 | II Arthur Manoli | Shoe sole insert |
| US20170295883A1 (en) * | 2016-04-14 | 2017-10-19 | Mark Frey | Shoe Insert |
| US20190133250A1 (en) * | 2017-11-03 | 2019-05-09 | Toni D'Alessandro | Orthopedic insoles |
| US20190261732A1 (en) * | 2018-02-26 | 2019-08-29 | Hbn Shoe, Llc | Device and method of constructing shoes |
| WO2020013640A1 (en) * | 2018-07-12 | 2020-01-16 | 뉴스텝 주식회사 | Shoes for plantar fasciitis pain alleviation and treatment |
| US20200221818A1 (en) * | 2019-01-14 | 2020-07-16 | Paul David Edwards | Apparatus and method for plantar fasciitis |
| WO2020221408A1 (en) | 2019-05-02 | 2020-11-05 | Pinpoint Biomechanics Holding Ivs | Anti pronation/eversion/heel spur insole |
| US10806218B1 (en) * | 2019-12-06 | 2020-10-20 | Singularitatem Oy | Method for manufacturing a customized insole and a system therefor |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| CN110891450B (en) | Apparatus and method for constructing shoes | |
| US6594922B1 (en) | Medial/lateral counter foot stabilizer | |
| US6604301B1 (en) | Shoe sole insert | |
| US5345701A (en) | Adjustable orthotic | |
| US7322130B2 (en) | Inner sole for a shoe | |
| US7849610B2 (en) | Orthopedic shoe appliance and method | |
| US4453322A (en) | Sandal having side wall for preventing pronation | |
| JP3049299B2 (en) | Modified sole structure using a shape larger than the theoretical ideal stable plane | |
| US7120958B2 (en) | Mass producible custom-made shoe inserts | |
| US6874258B2 (en) | Orthopedic shoe appliance and method | |
| CN108135325B (en) | Device for high-heeled shoes and method for constructing high-heeled shoes | |
| KR102454866B1 (en) | Method of making an orthopedic sole assembly | |
| US7625349B2 (en) | Biomechanical custom made foot orthosis and method for making the same | |
| US6938363B1 (en) | Orthopedic shoe appliance and method | |
| KR102101945B1 (en) | Semi-customized insole and method for selecting semi-customized insole | |
| US20150027002A1 (en) | Platform shoe, last and insole therefor and manufacture thereof | |
| NL2031277B1 (en) | Insole for patients having plantar fasciitis | |
| US11805850B1 (en) | Cuboid pad | |
| US4216778A (en) | Orthopedic appliance | |
| US4602626A (en) | Post-surgical foot splint | |
| WO2020221408A1 (en) | Anti pronation/eversion/heel spur insole | |
| US11540588B1 (en) | Footwear insole | |
| RU2769308C1 (en) | Insole | |
| US9980532B2 (en) | Proper posture high-heeled shoes | |
| GB2133669A (en) | Shoes |