What is the primary purpose of a SACH heel in an orthotic?

What is the primary purpose of a SACH heel in an orthotic?

• A. Energy store
• B. Reduces abrasion
• C. Shock absorber
• D. Improves toe clearance

Answer: (C)

The main job of a SACH heel is to absorb shock at heel strike. When the heel contacts the ground, the cushioned heel compresses and dampens the impact, smoothing the rollover into midstance and reducing the peak forces transmitted to the residual limb. This cushioning makes walking more comfortable and stable. It’s not designed to store and return energy for propulsion, nor to significantly affect toe clearance, so energy storage and toe clearance are less relevant to the SACH heel’s purpose.

The main job of a SACH heel is to absorb shock at heel strike. When the heel contacts the ground, the cushioned heel compresses and dampens the impact, smoothing the rollover into midstance and reducing the peak forces transmitted to the residual limb. This cushioning makes walking more comfortable and stable. It’s not designed to store and return energy for propulsion, nor to significantly affect toe clearance, so energy storage and toe clearance are less relevant to the SACH heel’s purpose.