Designing Better Orthoses: Technology, Principles and Clinical Insight

Join us for this 90-minute presentation and 10-minute Q&A session on the topic of Designing Better Orthoses: Technology, Principles and Clinical Insight

This webinar brings together Alex Murray and Blake Withers for a deep, practical exploration of custom orthotic design and manufacture. The session focuses on the underlying technology, design principles, and clinical considerations that shape effective orthotic solutions. Rather than centering on any single platform or tool, the conversation highlights the universal concepts that clinicians can apply across any manufacturing system they may encounter in practice.

Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how to translate clinical assessment into design decisions, how different fabrication technologies influence outcomes, and how to evaluate orthotic function with a systems-level mindset. Whether you’re new to orthotic design or looking to refine your technical reasoning, this discussion offers adaptable, evidence-informed insights that support confident decision‑making in diverse clinical environments.

What we will cover:

1. Identify key technologies and design principles used in custom orthotic manufacture.
2. Link clinical assessment to design choices that influence orthotic function.
3. Apply universal concepts to evaluate and optimise orthoses across any manufacturing system

The Presenters:

Alex Murray

Alex Murray is a podiatrist and rehabilitation coach with advanced training in sports and exercise medicine, podiatric biomechanics and strength and conditioning. His broad skill set allows him to deliver comprehensive, highly individualised foot and ankle care, integrating footwear guidance, custom orthoses and targeted exercise rehabilitation to meet each patient’s specific needs.

He has supported people across all ages and activity levels, from international athletes to recreational movers, and works closely with physiotherapists, GPs, medical specialists and orthopaedic surgeons to ensure coordinated care. As an educator, mentor and author, Alex teaches clinicians worldwide how to help patients overcome foot and ankle pain. With more than a decade of experience in clinics, on sports fields and in everyday settings, he champions an approach where people understand their condition, feel informed about their options and are empowered to take charge of their health.

Blake Withers

Blake Withers is a musculoskeletal and sports podiatrist, PhD candidate, educator, and researcher with a passion for translating science into clinical practice. He is currently completing his PhD on strategies to prevent running-related injuries, with a focus on resistance training and evidence-based interventions. Blake has delivered keynote presentations nationally and internationally on topics including stress fractures, tendon management, and footwear biomechanics. His experience spans clinical practice with elite athletes, teaching podiatric biomechanics at the University of Newcastle, and leading multidisciplinary education initiatives.

As co-host of The Sports Medicine Project podcast, Blake has engaged over 100,000 listeners worldwide, interviewing leading experts such as Dr Ebonie Rio, Dr Richard Willy, and Dr Christian Barton. He also founded an online education platform supporting more than 50 clinicians monthly with research-informed clinical content. Blake has been recognised with teaching awards, holds editorial roles with the Australian Podiatry Association, and serves on boards advancing musculoskeletal podiatry and interdisciplinary education. Whether in the clinic, classroom, or on stage, his work reflects a commitment to improving patient outcomes, bridging research with practice, and inspiring clinicians to deliver evidence-based care.

Event Details

Important Information:

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