Footwear & Orthotics Flashcards
7 cards from real FCC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Footwear & Orthotics flashcards as text
Which type of orthotic is most appropriate for a patient presenting with plantar fasciitis?
Answer: An orthotic with firm arch support and heel cushioning
Plantar fasciitis benefits from orthotics that support the arch and cushion the heel, reducing tension on the plantar fascia and impact forces at heel strike.
What is the purpose of a medial wedge incorporated into a shoe or orthotic?
Answer: To supinate the foot and correct overpronation
A medial wedge elevates the inner (medial) side of the foot, which supinates the foot and helps correct overpronation (excessive inward rolling).
What toe box characteristic is most important for a patient with hammertoe deformities?
Answer: Extra depth to accommodate the elevated toe joint without creating pressure
Hammertoe deformities create a raised toe joint that requires extra depth in the toe box to prevent painful pressure and skin breakdown over the PIP joint.
Which footwear characteristic is most important when selecting shoes for an elderly patient at risk for falls?
Answer: Low heel, non-slip sole, and secure fastening such as lace or Velcro
Fall prevention footwear should have a low heel for stability, non-slip soles for traction, and secure fastenings to prevent the shoe from slipping off during ambulation.
What does the term 'last' refer to in shoe manufacturing?
Answer: The three-dimensional foot-shaped form used to shape the shoe during construction
The 'last' is the foot-shaped mold around which a shoe is constructed; its shape determines the overall fit, toe shape, and internal volume of the finished shoe.
Which toe box shape is most appropriate for a patient with hallux valgus (bunion)?
Answer: Wide, rounded toe box to accommodate the bunion prominence
A wide, rounded toe box accommodates the bony prominence of a bunion without creating pressure that could lead to pain, skin irritation, or ulceration.
When fitting therapeutic footwear for a patient whose feet are two different sizes, what is the recommended approach?
Answer: Fit to the larger foot and use insoles or padding to accommodate the smaller foot
The shoe should always be fitted to the larger foot to prevent compression and pressure, and padding or insoles can fill space to accommodate the smaller foot.