Issue link: http://algeo.uberflip.com/i/886305
103 The Plantar Facial Groove Decreases arch irritation 1st Ray Cut Aids the 1st Ray to plantar flex, consequently enhancing the Windlass Mechanism Rear Foot Wedge Offloads the medial column to facilitate the Windlass Mechanism Inverts rear foot; improves biomechanical need for otherwise excessive arch height Cuboid Notch Aids the 1st Ray to plantar flex, consequently enhancing the Windlass Mechanism The Windlass Mechanism is a sequence of events where by the plantar fascia is pulled tight, thereby raising the arch and supinating the foot, resulting in a solid lever for toe off. The plantar fascia attaches to the heel and the base of the proximal phalanx of all toes. When the hallux is dorsiflexed at the 1st MTPJ joint, it acts as a lever that winds the plantar fascia around the 'drum' of the first metatarsal head. This has the effect of shortening the distance between the hallux and the heel, raising the arch and making the foot a rigid and stable structure during propulsion. The benefits of facilitating the Windlass Mechanism: • Assists the stability of the foot. • Minimises risk of injury and pain. • Increased comfort and performance. The Evolution and Reinvention of the Orthotic Enhance the Windlass Mechanism: All our orthotic designs have features to facilitate the Windlass Mechanism and are supported by independent research. These features include: The Plantar Fascial Groove: • Decreases arch irritation. • Facilitates Windlass Mechanism. Rear Foot Wedge: • Offloads the medial column to facilitate Windlass. • Inverts rear foot - improves biomechanical function and reduces the need for otherwise excessive arch height. 1st Ray Cut Out & Cuboid Notch: • Aids the 1st Ray to plantar flex, consequently enhancing the Windlass Mechanism. Interpod Orthotics