Which description matches a Thomas heel?

Which description matches a Thomas heel?

• A. Heel wedge with extended anterior medial border used to support longitudinal arch and correct for flexible pes valgus
• B. Metatarsal pad behind met heads
• C. Cushion-heel
• D. Rearfoot posting

Answer: (A)

Thomas heel is a heel wedge with an extended anterior medial border that reaches under the arch to provide medial longitudinal arch support. This design directly addresses flexible pes valgus by supporting the arch and reducing excessive hindfoot valgus and pronation during weight bearing. It’s specifically used when the goal is to correct a flexible flatfoot, improving foot alignment as the foot bears load. The other descriptions refer to different orthotic features: a metatarsal pad placed behind the metatarsal heads unloads the forefoot; a cushion-heel offers soft padding for comfort; and rearfoot posting modifies hindfoot alignment but does not provide arch support in the same way as a Thomas heel.

Thomas heel is a heel wedge with an extended anterior medial border that reaches under the arch to provide medial longitudinal arch support. This design directly addresses flexible pes valgus by supporting the arch and reducing excessive hindfoot valgus and pronation during weight bearing. It’s specifically used when the goal is to correct a flexible flatfoot, improving foot alignment as the foot bears load. The other descriptions refer to different orthotic features: a metatarsal pad placed behind the metatarsal heads unloads the forefoot; a cushion-heel offers soft padding for comfort; and rearfoot posting modifies hindfoot alignment but does not provide arch support in the same way as a Thomas heel.