A Step Toward A Perfect Fit

   The newest product for digital foot scanning expands on previously developed technology.

   The iStep Footwear Integration Technology (FIT) expands on the iStep Pressure Plate, a computer system that measures arch type and pressure points as a patient walks, according to Apex Foot Health Industries, the manufacturer of both products.

   The company’s patented FIT is particularly valuable in retail as the technology allows one to categorize patients based on their foot measurements, arch types and pressure points. Accordingly, one can then recommend the best shoes and inserts available to meet a particular patient’s needs.

   Company: Apex Foot Health Industries
   Product: iStep FIT
   For more info, circle 399 on your reader service card.

Assessing Your Financial Future

   Planning a financial future and managing risk can be challenging but two new volumes can help you tackle these complex subjects.

The books Financial Planning Handbook for Physicians and Advisors and Insurance and Risk Management Strategies for Physicians and Advisors offer sage advice on a variety of topics. Both books are written by Dr. David E. Marcinko, MBA, CFP, CMP.

   The Financial Planning Handbook addresses the bridging of financial planning and human psychology, insurance, income tax, investments and the basis for financial planning. Insurance and Risk Management Strategies addresses insurance for the doctor’s life, practice and possessions. The book also discusses how to manage risks regarding medical records and malpractice.

   Publisher: Jones and Bartlett Publishers
   Products: Financial Planning Handbook and Insurance and Risk Management Strategies
   For more info, circle 400 on your reader service card.

Protection From Shock, Shear And Fungus

   Sometimes, athletes have to choose between insoles that protect the foot and insoles that fight fungus and odors.

   However, Riecken’s Athletic Replacement Insoles reportedly combine the benefits of two insoles into one, according to Riecken’s Orthotic Laboratories, the manufacturer of the insoles.

   The company says these insoles utilize a viscoelastic gel insole that allows athletes to protect their feet from shock and shear. The insole’s X-Static silver fiber lining reduces odors and eliminates the fungus that causes tinea pedis, according to the company. The company adds that X-Static is a registered antimicrobial with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

   Company: Riecken’s Orthotic Laboratories
   Product: Riecken’s Athletic Replacement Insoles
   For more info, circle 401 on your reader service card.

Splint Offers Support And Correction

   When wearing soft splints, patients are looking for devices that provide comfort and control.

   The new Action^® Toe Loops^™ are helpful for patients who need correction for various conditions, according to the manufacturer 3-Point Products. The company says the loops can help treat fractures, overlapping toes, ligament injuries and jammed and rotated toes. It notes the product can also help straighten out and cushion hammertoes and claw toes.

   The product’s loop and wrap design binds two or more toes together, which can be helpful in stabilizing fractures. A thin but dense foam layer distributes pressure without adding bulk, according to 3-Point Products.

   Action^® Toe Loops^™ are available in a narrow 1 in. by 3 in. size for narrow toes and a wide 1.5 in. by 4 in. size for the great toe. The company adds that the Action Toe Loops can be worn in any shoe.

   Company: 3-Point Products
   Product: Action^® Toe Loops^™
   For more info, circle 402 on your reader service card.

Shoes Show New Depth

   For patients who require custom orthotics, new men’s and women’s shoes now have double the depth to accommodate the devices.

   The depth of both the men’s Xtra Depth^® Lord Pillow Back XX has been increased to one-half inch, according to manufacturer P.W. Minor and Son, Inc. The company says the shoe features Goodyear welt construction with a steel shank, antimicrobial lining and a rocker sole.

   To accommodate custom orthotics, the women’s Canfield^® Leisure DX2 has an increased depth of 1/2 in., notes P.W. Minor. The company says the shoe features a dual-density inlay system with three inlays and an exclusive polyester/suede cover.

   Company: P.W. Minor and Son, Inc.
   Products: Xtra Depth^® Lord Pillow Back XX and Canfield^® Leisure DX2
   For more info, circle 403 on your reader service card.

These Boots Are Made For Walking

   Following surgery and cast removal, patients would likely prefer a boot that offers comfort and stability.

   The new Walking Boot from Swede-O may fit the bill, according to the company. Swede-O also says the boot can be used within a continuing care regimen for severe ankle sprains and stable ankle fractures.

   The boot features a rocker bottom or rounded sole, and its lightweight design can facilitate offloading of the foot, according to the company.

   Swede-O says the boot’s uprights are comfortable and anatomically contoured with a foam liner for stability and a better fit, according to Swede-O. The product also features a cushioned heel designed for greater energy absorption and a wide foot bed that can accommodate various foot sizes.

   The Walking Boot is available in tall and short versions, and three sizes.

   Company: Swede-O, Inc.
   Product: Walking Boot
   For more info, circle 404 on your reader service card.