This simple truth inspired the creation of the new Insole Laboratory, a health and well-being service now available to the community at the ABC Academic Center. The laboratory brings together science, technology, and clinical expertise to address some of the most common but often overlooked problems of the human body: foot alignment, posture, and the impact they have on our overall quality of life.

The Foot: a small structure with a major job

The foot is the foundation of our body’s alignment and support. As we grow, the musculoskeletal system adapts to maintain stability, absorb shock, and move efficiently. Ideally, the feet evolve in a way that supports proper posture while standing and walking.

But this is not always the case.

Many people experience developmental or acquired changes that alter the natural structure of the feet. These misalignments can lead to deformities, gait changes, and abnormal pressure distribution. Over time, these issues may cause pain, calluses, blisters, and in more severe cases, complications such as diabetic foot ulcers.

What begins as a small imbalance can quickly influence knees, hips, and spine, creating a chain reaction of discomfort and dysfunction.

When technology meets foot health

To minimise these harmful effects, one of the most effective tools available today is the plantar orthosis, more commonly known as orthopedic insoles. These customised devices aim to realign the foot, redistribute pressure, reduce harmful forces, and relieve pain or excessive load in certain areas.

The Insole Laboratory by ABC was created precisely with this purpose in mind: to design highly personalised, scientifically grounded, and clinically effective orthotic solutions tailored to each person’s needs.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client;

Using a full biomechanical evaluation of the lower limbs, the team can design insoles that support a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Foot and toe deformities
  • Chronic or acute pain
  • Diabetic foot complications
  • Pediatric foot conditions
  • Sports-related performance needs

A laboratory with a social mission

Beyond offering individualized treatment, the Laboratory serves a broader goal: improving people’s quality of life through the prevention, study, and correction of foot-related problems and their impact on the rest of the body.

By using advanced technology and personalised devices such as custom insoles, orthopedic footwear, and ankle-foot orthoses, the team aims to create meaningful social impact. Preventing complications, supporting mobility, and reducing pain are not only clinical outcomes — they are key contributors to independence, confidence, and well-being.

How the evaluations work

The Laboratory offers a comprehensive set of assessments, each providing a unique insight into how the feet and lower limbs function. These include:

  • Static and dynamic plantar pressure analysis

This advanced assessment measures the distribution of pressure under the feet while standing and walking. It helps identify overload zones, which are often the cause of pain or skin problems.

  • Centre-of-pressure evaluation

By analysing how the body balances itself during standing and gait, clinicians can understand postural tendencies and detect early signs of instability or misalignment.

  • Assessment of postural deviations

Lower-limb posture is carefully examined to identify rotational, angular, or structural imbalances.

  • Goniometry and dynamometry

These tests measure joint angles and muscle strength, providing essential data for designing accurate orthopedic solutions.

Together, these evaluations create a complete picture of how a person moves — and what their body needs to move better.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client;

Areas of intervention

The Laboratory’s work extends to several specialised areas:

  • Custom plantar orthoses design

This includes tailored insoles for deformities, pain, diabetic foot protection, pediatric needs, and athletic performance enhancement.

  • Orthopedic and therapeutic footwear

Properly fitted shoes can make a significant difference in mobility, especially for individuals with moderate to severe deformities of the foot and ankle.

  • Compression therapy

Graduated compression socks support circulation, reduce swelling, and aid recovery.

  • Adaptation of lower-limb orthoses

This includes ankle-foot orthoses, knee braces, and spinal orthoses — all personalised to improve function and comfort.

The professionals behind the service

The Laboratory is staffed by Orthotists, healthcare professionals recognised within the Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technician category (as defined by Portuguese legislation). Their work involves evaluating individuals with motor or postural issues and designing devices that correct or support the locomotor system.

This specialised expertise ensures that every insole, brace, or orthopedic solution is grounded in clinical evidence and tailored with precision. It is not simply about crafting a device, but understanding the person who will use it — their anatomy, their lifestyle, and their goals.

Building Better Lives, One Step at a Time

The Insole Laboratory is more than a technical facility. It represents a commitment to accessible, community-oriented healthcare. By focusing on prevention, personalisation, and innovative design, the Laboratory helps individuals move with less pain and more confidence.

In a world where mobility is essential for independence, participation, and quality of life, taking care of our feet is not a luxury — it is a necessity.

Now, thanks to this new service at ABC Academic Center in Loulé, the community has a resource dedicated to helping everyone walk toward healthier, more comfortable living.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client;

For more information about our new ABC Insole Laboratory, visit our website at https://algarvebiomedicalcenter.pt/service/healthcare-lab/ or schedule your foot evaluation today by calling to 935 721 302 or emailing ortolab@abcmedicalg.pt.