Definition General definition Thermoforming is a technique of taking a material, heating it to soften it, and taking advantage of this ductility to shape it with a mold. The material renders it harder when it cools, keeping this shape. In podiatry Thermoforming in podiatry results from 2 consecutive actions: the first one called "heat-welding" consists in heating an insole (assembled materials or ready-to-use module like OPCT) at a given temperature and under pressure in order to merge materials that compose the insole and make it malleable. The second is the demolding phase which consists in positioning the insole still hot in a mold, this mold will retain the shape of the insole when cooled.

Taking the print in an imprint boxes Making the positive cast in pu Making orthotics shaped onto positives Making orthotics directly on the foot Taking the print in an imprint boxes Making the positive cast in pu Process to the molding

In an uncorrected position, with foam pads

In corrected position with silicon bags

For making orthotics directly on the foot, in the shoes

Flat insoles technics This insole, also called "postural", is obtained by applying only the first step of "heat sealing". It is a "flat" insole for which postural elements are added between the base and the top layer. The fusion of the base and the top layer sandwiches these elements that have an impact on the body posture.

5. Thermoforming techniques PU technique: consists in take the print in a PU expanded foam with some comfort elements integrated and positioned at the right place. Diapo Appareillage particulier This technique concerns big injuries/ pathology of the feet (traumatics, polyarthrit) Results are really positive when foot are really sensitives 8

6. Five key points 1 - Symmetry of the heel part Mettre après les techniques de thermo 9

6. Five key points 2- Adjustment of the heel part Mettre après les techniques de thermo Danger : do not push the feet forward ! 10

6. Five key points 3- Ajustement of the 1st metatarsal head (metatarsophalangeal head) ≠0 Mettre après les techniques de thermo 11

6. Five key points 4 - Forefoot : flat ! Mettre après les techniques de thermo 12

6. Five key points 5 – Fitting into the shoe without forcing

6. Five key points Mettre après les techniques de thermo 14