Three Dimensional Printing of Custom Foot Orthoses to Treat Flexible Flat Feet

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): During Phase I of this project, Seraph Robotics will complete development and initial feasibility testing of a working prototype of a specialized 3D Printer Orthosis System for creation of multi-property custom foot orthoses. The methods to be employed include the selection of materials that are of the highest quality and have appropriate properties for the supporting and cushioning functions of 3D printed orthoses; development of a process for printing custom orthoticsbased on a clinician's prescription; and a small pilot study to compare the effects of orthotics created with Seraph technology vs. custom-molded foot orthotics on foot structure, function, and clinical outcomes in typically developing children with flexible flatfoot. Flatfoot is a medical condition in which the longitudinal arch of the foot is abnormally lowered, and may come into near or complete contact with the ground. If left untreated, pediatric flatfoot can result in permanent deformity as an ad