Orthodigital Devices in Sports Medicine


Digital deformities requiring immobilization or protection

Heloma durum (hard corns)

Heloma molle (soft corns interdigitally)

Fractures of the digits

Hammer toes

Tight-fitting shoes with limited internal volume (such as soccer/football/baseball/cycling cleats, ballet/dance/aerobic shoes, and skating/skiing boots)



An orthodigital device is made from a moldable silicone compound which allows the quick fabrication of interdigital wedges, separators, dorsal toe protectors, and orthodigital splints. These devices can be mixed, shaped, and set in less than 5 min, and they are washable, nontoxic, nonirritating to skin.

The material is smooth, soft, and easily kneadable, which—after adding the catalyst hardening paste/curing agent—achieves a putty-like consistency. After 4–5 min, the device will harden into its permanent form and can then be applied to the athlete’s foot, and simple modifications can be made by cutting or grinding.

Orthodigital devices provide a customizable fit and allow portability (they can be made in an office-setting, in the athletic training room, or even on the sideline). Orthodigital devices provide superior durability versus athletic taping, and they are reusable, washable, and can be removed and reapplied.


Guidelines for Fabrication of an Orthodigital Device


Materials needed (Fig. 10.1)

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Fig. 10.1
Materials needed to fabricate an orthodigital device: silicon compound; hardening/curing agent; scoop measuring device (1 TSP)

1. Silicon compound

2. Hardening/curing agent (catalyst)

3. Scoop measuring device (1 TSP)

4. Ruler

Step-by-step process for fabricating an orthodigital device (Figs. 10.2, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5, and 10.6)


  1. Step 1.


    Obtain the approximate volume of material. Prior to adding the hardening agent, estimate the amount of material needed by making a premold of the digits to be splinted.

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Jul 9, 2017 | Posted by in MUSCULOSKELETAL MEDICINE | Comments Off on Orthodigital Devices in Sports Medicine

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