FAQs

Explore our frequently asked questions to quickly find the information you need. From product details to becoming a provider, this section covers the most common inquiries. If you can’t find the answer here, feel free to contact us for further support.

General FAQs:

What are Formthotics, and how are they different from other orthotic insoles?

Formthotics are customizable orthotic insoles designed to provide optimal support and comfort. Unlike other insoles, they are made with a thermoformable material that molds precisely to the contours of the wearer's foot, offering a tailored fit that enhances biomechanical alignment and comfort.

How Do I Clean Formthotics?

Formthotics can be cleaned easily by wiping them with warm, soapy water, rinsing them with fresh water, and leaving them to air dry. Due to their closed-cell foam construction, they do not absorb water or odors.

How long do Formthotics last, and what factors influence their durability?

The lifespan of Formthotics varies based on usage but typically ranges from 12 to 24 months. Factors such as the intensity and frequency of use, activity level, and individual foot characteristics can influence their durability. Proper care and maintenance also play a crucial role in extending their lifespan.

To learn more, view our product knowledge videos here.

What are Formthotics orthotics made from?

They are made from the unique, proprietary PE foam called Formax, a type of chemically cross-linked, closed-cell polyethylene foam. This foam is very different from EVA, which most other foam insoles are made from. Formax is completely thermoformable (heat mouldable), which means they can change shape at relatively low temperatures. Its closed-cell structure means it is completely waterproof.

Formthotics contain an added antimicrobial agent, Ultra Fresh, that prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi. Independent laboratory tests show that Formax foam has a 100% surface inhibition of common bacteria, including Aspergillus.niger and Staphylococcus.aureus. To learn more about Formthotics custom orthotics and their distinguishing features, visit the Formthotics Difference page.

Why Formthotics?

Formthotics are unique, custom-fitted orthoses designed to provide the support and comfort your patient needs and to naturally fit their feet.

They achieve this in two ways. Firstly, the Formthotics are thermoformable. This means they are heat molded to your patient’s feet and shoes for a truly customized fit, resulting in better support and control. They create a close, personalized fit between the foot and footwear.

Formthotics are mouldable at relatively low temperatures compared to ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) products. EVA cannot be effectively molded or remolded.

Secondly, Formthotics can also be customized by the addition of a number of components that are designed to help support the foot, such as pads, supports, and wedges. These can be added or taken away as required, depending on the condition of the wearer. The foam is also easy to trim and grind to shape where needed.

Learn more about the Formthotics Difference here.

Why Should Formthotics Be Heated During Fitting?

Heating Formthotics allows the foam to mold precisely to the foot and shoe, ensuring a customized fit that improves comfort and patient compliance.

Can Formthotics Be Transferred Between Shoes?

Yes, Formthotics can be easily transferred between similar shoe types, though users may need multiple pairs of shoes with different shapes and sizes.

What Are the Different Density Options for Formthotics?

Formthotics are available in X soft to hard densities to provide varying levels of support and cushioning and are suitable for different activities and foot conditions.

Learn more about selecting Formthotics here.

Are Formthotics suitable for all types of shoes?

Formthotics are designed to fit a wide variety of shoe types, including athletic, casual, and work shoes. They come in different shapes and volume profiles to accommodate various footwear styles, ensuring that users can enjoy the benefits of custom orthotics without compromising on their choice of shoes.

Find out how to match Formthotics with different shoe types here.

Who can benefit from using Formthotics?

Formthotics are beneficial for a wide range of individuals, including athletes seeking improved performance, those with foot discomfort or injuries, and anyone requiring extra support and stability in their footwear. They are suitable for various ages and activity levels.

Medical Range FAQs:

*for clinicians and medical professionals

How Does the Formthotics Medical System Work?

The Formthotics Medical System is a patient-centric process of assessment and management. The comprehensive clinical method utilizes tried and tested practices to improve lower limb function. Clinicians can build on their existing expertise to select, fit and adjust Formthotics quickly and effectively.

The full-service system includes:

• 6 Tests – objective clinical tests

• 6 Steps - to select, fit and adjust Formthotics custom medical orthoses

The system is based on scientific literature and theoretical and clinical insight from respected health professionals in sports medicine, musculoskeletal medicine, podiatry, and physiotherapy. It is an evidence-based, holistic approach to producing functional foot orthoses.

For more information, check out the Formthotics Medical System here.

What Conditions Can Formthotics Help Manage?

Formthotics are used to treat conditions such as plantar fasciitis (plantar fasciopathy), Achilles tendinopathy, flat feet, knee pain, and lower back pain by improving alignment and reducing stress on tissues.

How do orthotics support the elderly and reduce falls?

Falls and loss of balance can be concerning, particularly in high-risk patients over the age of 70, for whom these can have wider implications. Even small falls can require hospital stays, leading to infection or further complications.

Formthotics reduce falls by creating full-surface contact with the foot, improving sensory input, particularly for elderly feet with fat pad atrophy. They also improve comfort, which allows for a more natural gait. Research has shown that big toe function can reduce the risk of falls, and Formthotics, particularly when customized, can improve first ray function. Proprioceptors in the joints of the feet and ankle can be instrumental in preventing falls. These receptors are influenced by foot posture and are part of the somatosensory system. Formthotics can enhance proprioception from the foot to the pelvis by proprioceptive neuromuscular adaptations, thus improving hip strength, which is essential throughout life and can help prevent falls.

Find out more about the role of foot orthoses in clinical practice here.

Can Formthotics help with pronation and supination?

Most conditions that refer to medical diagnoses of foot pain are caused by excessive forces related to either pronation or supination. When the foot is excessively pronated or supinated, this can cause joint pain elsewhere in the body, such as the knee or hip. The positioning of the feet affects the entire musculoskeletal system through the kinetic chain. Formthotics orthotics can help reduce excessive forces causing pain and dysfunction and allow the feet and leg to operate more efficiently, improving comfort and athletic performance.

What Are the Benefits of Modifying Formthotics?

Clinicians can make on-the-spot modifications using additions like heel lifts and wedges to enhance function and address specific conditions.

View the additions range here.

Do Orthotics Cause Muscle Weakness?

There is no evidence that orthotics weaken muscles. Instead, they work in conjunction with strengthening and rehabilitation programs to enhance recovery.

How Do I Select the Right Formthotics Model for My Patient?

Selection is based on the patient’s activity level, foot type, and footwear. Higher-density models are recommended for active individuals or patients requiring greater support. Use our selection tool to help you choose or learn more from the Formthotics custom fit guide.

Can Formthotics be adjusted after they have been customized?

Yes, Formthotics can be re-thermoformed if necessary, allowing for adjustments to be made as needed. This flexibility ensures that the orthotics can continue providing optimal support and comfort even if foot condition or shoe fit changes occur.

Becoming a Provider:

How Do I Become a Formthotics Provider?

For clinicians who want to become a Formthotics provider, fill out the provider application form on our website. Our team will review your submission and provide further steps.