The change in orthotic making techniques with the development of current biomechanical theories.
In the early 1960s, a few orthopedic practitioners, following the work and example of Dr Merton Root, decided to pursue new orthopedics, which became known as biomechanics. In the 1970s, after years of encountering resistance, a few laboratories were available to fabricate the Root orthotic and offer advice and education on the management of the orthopedic patient. Eventually, runners turned to podiatrists for conservative care so they could continue to participate in their sport; biomechanics had become established. Presently, podiatrists have not performed the research necessary to document and further Root's work; however, as stated in one of life's axioms, the only credentials one needs are results. William Eric Lee's article is a thorough, comprehensive documentation of events and background of Root and his theory. Lee set out to provide a detailed picture of Root's clinical system of approach toward the treatment of mechanically induced foot ailments. His article is a splendid achievement.
Wernick
J
J
Division of Clinical Sciences, Department of Orthopedics, New York College of Podiatric Medicine, New York, New York, USA. JWernic@nycpm.edu
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D005528:Foot / Q000502:physiology*; D005534:Foot Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D009989:Orthotic Devices / Q000266:history*; D011032:Podiatry / Q000266:history*