19 Shoe Design Principles for People with First Degree Deformity
Channel: Orthopedic Shoe Making
Date: 01/05/2019

A first degree deformity is a deformity where the patient can correct the deformity if asked to do so, but without effort will default back to the incorrect position. It is evidence of something out of alignment in the muscular or skeletal structures. 

Bill Bird explains that it is necessary to assess why the person is walking in a deformed manner. It can be treated with an orthotic or heel correction to create a voluntary response for the foot to walk in a normal way.

Pidgeon toed and splay footed gaits can be corrected with gate plates. 

Tibial Varum is a common condition that can be treated by raising the inner border of the shoe. This condition is usually found in young people who are still growing, so it is best to work with an orthotic, or to take a shoe that fits the person and make bespoke orthopedic adjustments to it.