Sintratec S2 is revolutionizing podiatry with 3D printing in Australia

The practice is based in Albany, Australia Advanced Family and Sports Podiatry (AFSP) Mark Ireland has undergone a significant change in leadership. Since implementation Syntratech S2, a Swiss SLS 3D printer, nearly three years ago, the team was able to create more than 1,300 pairs of customized foot insoles. This represents a significant improvement in the treatment of foot problems and dysfunction.

The success of the AFSP is reflected in an increase of about 30 percent in patients, which Ireland attributes to increased health awareness and associated foot problems. As a result, he sees podiatry in greater demand than ever before.

“The potential of Syndratec technology is enormous in the field of podiatry and should be seriously considered for a podiatry practice,” commented Mark Ireland, owner and senior podiatrist, Advanced Family and Sports Podiatry.

The decision to buy Syntratech S2 was a turning point. The technology makes it possible to create customized insoles within 24 hours – a speed that cannot be achieved using traditional methods. Precision and design freedom provided by selective laser sintering are key advantages.

“When we first started using S2, we were making traditionally designed orthotics,” says Ireland. “But over time, we began to harness the power of the material to create tools that better fit feet and shoes, and provide a personalized fit that improves the fit of the foot in the shoe.”

The process, based on a unique 3D scan of the foot and additional treadmill data, enables the orthoses to be optimally adjusted. Ireland uses Syntratech PA12, a strong nylon material whose lightness and durability surpasses conventional methods.

The introduction of S2 marks a revision in AFSP. Initially, traditionally designed orthoses were produced, but the potential of the material was soon fully exploited to create aids that enabled better integration of foot and shoe.

Apart from foot orthoses, AFSP now also manufactures specialized aids such as heel raisers and shoe risers for people with leg length differences. More than 1,500 patients have already benefited from these innovative solutions. The ever-increasing demand and production underscores the success and effectiveness of Syntratech technology in podiatry.

“The performance, quality and reliability of the Syntratech S2 has opened up a world of helping victims in ways we could only dream of before,” enthuses Ireland. “This system has contributed significantly to the company's success and created a unique service for our customers that only we can offer,” concluded the podiatrist.