July 1, 2020 Alliance Design & Development Group (ADDG) offers SelectFlex, a dynamic arch control insole with selectable support levels designed to improve lower extremity health for industrial workers. ADDG specifically engineered SelectFlex insoles to help prevent the many ailments that often afflict those who work on their feet all day, particularly in industrial fields like manufacturing and assembly.
Barry Renow, CEO of ADDG, said, "Foot issues and disorders are pervasive among three quarters of Americans across all demographics. As a technology company, we were committed to developing a treatment that was not only more effective, but could be personalized and was easily accessible by everyone."
"Data indicates 70-80% of people are susceptible to foot overpronation, which is caused when the ankle rolls excessively inward, or the arch collapses excessively downward as with flat feet, whether when standing, walking or running," said a company spokesperson. "Overpronation disrupts the body's natural alignment and causes greater foot strike impact, which raises the risk for injuries that can range from mild to severe, such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, iliotibial band syndrome on outer knees, foot or lower leg stress fractures, neuropathy, bunions, heel spurs, chronic lower back pain and more.
"Traditionally, patients seek treatment from a podiatrist, orthopedic surgeon, or physical therapist and, at minimum, might purchase custom-made orthotics, which can cost anywhere from $300 to $600. For a fraction of the cost, SelectFlex adjustable arch insoles offer a universal solution that helps prevent injuries caused by overpronation and poor alignment, as well as problems related to high arches, hammer toes, arthritic or diabetic side effects and other lower extremity issues."
By turning the PowerController key to one of three arch support levels, SelectFlex orthotics dynamically lift the foot into kinetic alignment with the body and correct abnormal pronation. The insoles biomechanically conform to each individual's arch geometry within three selectable stiffness level/arch height support options available on demand. "Unlike traditional static orthotic inserts, SelectFlex gives the wearer the power to choose the level of support that is right for them, from medium firm, to firm or X-firm, and can change settings for each foot or for different types of activities," said the spokesperson.
SelectFlex was developed by applying the Cantilever Principle to dynamically support the human biped anatomy where body mass should be distributed evenly along the length of the spinal column. The PowerLift Arch suspension system and PowerBeam arch lifting technology replicates the spring ligaments of the arch to absorb impact, mitigate downward compressive forces on feet and knees, and release energy back to the body with each step in the gait cycle. "In a new motion analysis study performed by Quinnipiac, results showed that the SelectFlex PowerLift Arch provided up to 52% increased arch height support and deformation control at each of the three settings," said the spokesperson.
In addition to the PowerController, PowerBeam and PowerLift Arch, SelectFlex orthotics also feature the PowerCup and the PowerBed. "The SelectFlex PowerCup cradles the heel in a soft Durometer cushion that absorbs foot strike impact, dissipates walking pressures and provides up to 50% more ankle stability," said the spokesperson. "The SelectFlex PowerBed adds three extra layers of cushion with a medical grade ergonomic shell and composite memory foam foot pad, wrapped in an antimicrobial, deodorizing, moisture wicking, low friction fabric cover. SelectFlex orthotics work with most types of footwear, from work and athletic shoes, to slip resistant shoes and steel-toed safety boots. They are built to last six months to a year or longer with normal usage but, even at a minimum of four months, they last 88% longer than over-the-counter gel and foam insoles."