Quadrastep System
At Premier Podiatry Associates, we’re proud to offer the QUADRASTEP System—an innovative, science-based method for diagnosing and treating foot problems using advanced prefabricated orthotics.
What Is the QUADRASTEP System?
The QUADRASTEP System categorizes feet into six distinct structural types, referred to as “quads.” Each type has its distinct characteristics and patterns of movement, which can impact your walking mechanics and lead to various foot, ankle, knee, hip, and back issues.
These orthotics are not one-size-fits-all. Instead, they are designed to match your specific foot structure precisely, delivering immediate relief and long-term support. The devices are made from a specialized thermoplastic that provides strong yet comfortable support, encouraging better movement and higher compliance.
Severe High-Arched Foot (Pes Cavus)
What It Is: The A Quad foot is highly supinated, with a high arch and rigid structure. Often described as a “torque foot,” it lacks natural shock absorption and can overload the outer edge of the foot.
Common Symptoms:
- Heel or low back pain
- Ankle instability or sprains
- Excessive supination
- Hammer toes or sesamoiditis
Orthotic Features:
- Lateral forefoot posting
- First metatarsal head (MTH) cutout
- Deep lateral heel cup
- Small heel lift for added balance
Mild Flatfoot, Often One-Sided (Mild Pes Planus)
What It Is: A mildly over-pronated foot is often seen on just one side. It may be related to leg length
Common Symptoms:
- Lower back or sacroiliac joint pain
- Hypermobility in the big toe joint
- Leg length discrepancy complications
Orthotic Features:
- Medial rearfoot posting
- Lateral forefoot support
- Mild medial skive for better arch control
Subtle High Arch with Toe-Out Gait
What It Is: This type shows a moderate arch with a noticeable toe-out walking pattern. Often, the foot can’t pronate properly, forcing the hips to overcompensate.
Common Symptoms:
- Retrocalcaneal bursitis
- Lateral hip pain
- IT band syndrome
- Haglund’s deformity
Orthotic Features:
- Stabilizing rearfoot posting
- Moderate arch support
- Standard heel cup depth for alignment
Moderate Flatfoot (Developmental Flatfoot)
What It Is: A commonly seen type of flat foot in children and adults. It causes instability during walking and affects how the foot absorbs shock.
Common Symptoms:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Ball-of-foot pain (metatarsalgia)
- Functional hallux limitus
- Knee pain from misalignment
Orthotic Features:
- Deep heel cup for control
- Medial rearfoot posting
- Balanced medial skive and lateral flare
Rigid, High-Arched Foot with Medial Loading Issues
What It Is: This foot has a rigid, high arch that makes it hard to balance. It’s often identified by the heel “whip” during walking and a reverse-lasted foot shape.
Common Symptoms:
- Shin splints
- Plantar fasciitis
- Medial knee pain
- Tailor’s bunion
Orthotic Features:
- Lateral forefoot posting
- First metatarsal head (MTH) cutout
- Deep lateral heel cup
- Small heel lift for added balance
Severely Flat and Flexible Foot (Pes Planovalgus)
What It Is: The most flexible and unstable foot type. This true “flatfoot” lacks structural support and places stress on the entire lower body.
Common Symptoms:
- Bunions, hammertoes, and corns
- Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
- Plantar fasciitis and splayfoot
- Knee and ankle pain
Orthotic Features:
- Deep heel cup
- Large medial skive
- Rearfoot and forefoot posting
- First MTH cutout for pressure relief
Get Matched with the Right Orthotic Today
At Premier Podiatry Associates, we utilize the QUADRASTEP System to eliminate the guesswork from orthotic prescription. By identifying your foot type and fitting you with the correct device, we can alleviate pain, enhance function, and help you walk with greater confidence.
Book your evaluation today and take a step toward better health.