Concept Selection

In class, a variety of ideas were brainstormed for our treatment of gait misalignment. This included different plays on foot inserts, footwear modifications, cushions, etc.

After narrowing down our patient population to Bunions, we constructed a Pugh Matrix to aid us in comparing all our different ideas. On the Pugh Matrix, we compare every idea to the current state of the art for Bunion correction and ranked the ideas from best to most impaired based on how they compared on a variety of weighted factors. Below is our downloadable Pugh Matrix where you can view and better understand our decision making.

The number one choice from the Pugh Matrix came out to be the Toe Splints/Correctors. This option was comparatively better, or at the very least equal to, the baseline on all metrics. More significantly, it ranked positively on reliability/durability, comfort, biocompatibility, and corrective function. These were all the factors that were ranked at our top and most important user priorities.

Based on the above, toe splints/correctors seem to be the best method for correcting Bunion-induced misalignment as it ranks the highest among the potential ideas and fulfils the requests and priorities of our users and their needs.

As such, we aim to potentially try and combine most of the pros of the devices in the pugh matrix, especially that of the toe splints/correctors and create a device offering a soft, breathable design with integrated toe spacers, adjustable splint attachments, and possibly a built-in arch support for an overall effective bunion treatment for both day and night. We also want to make it adjustable and customizable to fit the user as they can change and delete parts as needed. This is because we aim for an eventual comprehensive solution for toe alignment and foot comfort.