The rigid orthotics made by XT is thin, light and rigid. XT is stiffer and less forgiving than polypropylene but offers the advantages of being lighter and thinner. It is essential to make the device full-length for basketball with 1/16-inch perforated Poron top covers provide additional shock absorption and “breathability” to the device.
A semi-rigid shell, such as a 1/8-inch to ¼-inch polypropylene device could be used in combination with multiple layers of shock-absorbing materials such as EVA and poron. As a matter of fact, choosing the type of material has to be decided by the specialist to best serve the player.
Other than a deep heel seat that will help with rearfoot control, several other modifications such as a more flexible type of shell can be useful in the design of the orthotic in order to provide more midfoot support and rearfoot control. such as :
1. Heel Lift
Heel Lift is contraindicated in the basketball device because it will raise the height of the subtalar joint axis from the floor and increase the mechanical leverage for ground reaction force, leading to inversion ankle injuries in the athlete.
2. Heel Post
Important to add further shock absorption for the tremendous forces that occur during playing at heel contact is recommended.
3. Metatarsal Pad
Metatarsal pads are useful in taking pressure off the metatarsal area and providing more midfoot support.
4. Reverse Morton Extension
Made of cork or Poron. This will not only aid in jumping by helping to engage the peroneal longus tendon but additionally provides further shock absorption to the forefoot.