Intrinsic Rearfoot
The values you enter in this field will determine the degrees of intrinsic rearfoot correction that we will add to your scan or cast, meaning this correction will be built into the shell of your orthotic.
This is different from extrinsic rearfoot correction which uses an external post at the rearfoot to produce the requested angle. Many podiatrists prefer intrinsic correction because of the decrease in bulk compared to an external correction post. Both intrinsic and extrinsic rearfoot posting should ultimately achieve the same level of functional control, so make this selection with the comfort of your patient and their footwear in mind.
Note: when the posting angles exceed 8 degrees on an intrinsic device, an external stabilising post is recommended to ensure the orthotics have adequate stability (though is not mandatory).
The intrinsic rearfoot values are measured in degrees (e.g. 6 degrees varus, 4 degrees valgus posting). The forefoot will be balanced and this correction will not alter the patient’s arch height, meaning you do not need to worry about discomfort at the mid and forefoot. Remember:
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The default selection is varus (vr). Please select valgus (vl) if you wish to add valgus posting at your specified degrees
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If you are happy with your STJ neutral or cast position, please leave it blank
We recommend adding a rearfoot post when selecting a wedge device or a rearfoot cast modification of 10 plus degrees.
Varus: 15 degrees
Valgus: Posterior View 8 degrees
Intrinsic Forefoot
The values you enter in this field will determine the degrees of intrinsic forefoot correction that we will add to your scan or cast, meaning this correction (or ‘angle’) will be built into the shell of your orthotic. Intrinsic forefoot posting helps add greater support and elevation either laterally or medially on the forefoot, depending on the posting you select (see specific examples below).
Remember to carefully select whether you want varus (vr), which is the default, or valgus (vl) posting. This correction in the shell finishes behind the metatarsal heads, meaning that:
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Adding valgus forefoot posting will add greater support and elevation beneath the 5th met bone, dropping down at the 5th metatarsal head. The support will taper down from the 5th to the 2nd metatarsals.
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Adding varus forefoot posting will elevate the first ray, and taper down from the 1st to the 4th metatarsals.
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You must ensure that your patient's foot type will not result in the posting aggravating the affected metatarsals
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If you want an extended forefoot post please, write it in NOTES FOR LAB STAFF.
Most intrinsic forefoot varus and valgus corrections are between 1 and 6 degrees.
Forefoot Valgus - Lateral sagittal view
Forefoot Varus (less common intrinsically) - Medial sagittal view