PPT vs Poron®: Orthotic Materials Comparison, Advantages and Uses
PPT (Professional Protective Technology) Orthotic Material
What is PPT?PPT (Professional Protective Technology) is a microcellular polyurethane foam used in podiatry and orthotic fabrication for shock absorption, pressure redistribution, vibration dampening and patient comfort. It is commonly used as orthotic top covers, heel cushions, metatarsal pads, diabetic foot orthoses and protective padding. Unlike EVA or Plastazote, PPT is not thermoformable and is usually laminated to a structural material.
Physical Properties of PPT
- Microcellular polyurethane foam
- Excellent shock absorption
- Excellent pressure redistribution
- High vibration dampening
- Low compression set (<10%)
- Good durability
- Moderate abrasion and moisture resistance
- Not thermoformable
Clinical Applications of PPT
- Diabetes and neuropathy
- Heel pain and plantar fasciitis
- Fat pad atrophy
- Metatarsalgia
- Sports orthoses
- Arthritic feet
- Pressure relief and ulcer prevention
Limitations of PPT
- Provides minimal structural support
- Cannot control foot motion
- Cannot be heat moulded
- May wear faster than some top cover materials
Comparison: PPT vs Poron®
| Property | PPT® | PORON® |
|---|---|---|
| Shock absorption | Excellent | Excellent |
| Compression set | Low | Very low |
| Durability | Good | Excellent |
| Resilience | Good | Excellent |
| Consistency over time | Good | Excellent |
| Moisture resistance | Moderate | Better |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Advantages of Poron® over PPT
- Better long-term resilience
- Lower compression set
- Superior durability under repeated loading
- More consistent cushioning
- Better energy management
- Wider range of formulations
- Often preferred for premium orthotic devices
References
- Paton J, Jones RB, Stenhouse E, Bruce G. The Physical Characteristics of Materials Used in the Manufacture of Orthoses for Patients with Diabetes. Foot & Ankle International. 2007;28(10):1057–1063.
- University of Washington. Foams (Soft Interfaces) – Lab Safety, Tools and Techniques in Prosthetics and Orthotics.
- University of Plymouth Research Portal. The Physical Characteristics of Materials Used in the Manufacture of Orthoses for Patients with Diabetes.
- Elite Orthotics. Material Reference Sheet.
Frequently Asked Questions about PPT and Poron®
Why do premium orthotics often use PORON®?
PORON® is widely used in premium orthotics because it combines excellent shock absorption with exceptional durability. Unlike many cushioning materials that gradually compress with use, PORON® maintains its cushioning properties over a much longer period.
Does PORON® last longer than PPT®?
In most cases, yes. PORON® generally has a lower compression set, allowing it to recover its original thickness after repeated loading and maintain cushioning for longer.
Are expensive cushioning materials worth the investment?
Higher-quality materials such as PORON® retain their cushioning properties for longer, reducing the need for frequent replacement and providing lasting comfort.
Why do many premium orthotic brands choose PORON®?
PORON® offers excellent impact absorption, pressure redistribution, resilience and long-term durability. It is available in multiple densities for different clinical needs.
Which material lasts longer: PORON® or PPT®?
Both materials are durable, but PORON® generally demonstrates better long-term resilience and is less likely to lose thickness over time.
Which material is better for heel pain?
Both materials help reduce heel impact, but PORON® often maintains its cushioning performance for longer, making it a popular choice for chronic heel pain.
Which material is better for standing all day?
PORON® is often preferred because it provides consistent cushioning and excellent resistance to compression during prolonged standing.
Which material is commonly used by podiatrists?
Both PORON® and PPT® are commonly used. The choice depends on the patient's condition, activity level, footwear and budget.
Which material is best for work boots?
Both perform well, but PORON® is often preferred for workers who spend long hours on hard surfaces due to its long-term resilience.
Can both PORON® and PPT® be used in orthotics?
Yes. Both are widely used as cushioning top covers on custom and semi-custom orthotics to improve comfort and reduce pressure.
What is PORON® made from?
PORON® is a high-performance microcellular polyurethane foam engineered for cushioning, impact protection and long-lasting resilience.
What is PPT® made from?
PPT® is a microcellular polyurethane cushioning material designed to reduce pressure, absorb impact and improve underfoot comfort.
Does body weight affect which material is best?
Yes. Heavier individuals often benefit from PORON® because it recovers its shape more effectively after repeated loading.
Which material is better for runners?
PORON® is often preferred for high-mileage runners because it withstands repeated impacts while maintaining cushioning over time.
Can PORON® help reduce foot fatigue?
Yes. PORON® helps absorb shock and redistribute pressure, making prolonged standing and walking more comfortable for many people.
Orthotic Materials PPT vs PORON®: Properties, Clinical Performance and Advantages
PPT (Professional Protective Technology) Orthotic Material
What is PPT?PPT (Professional Protective Technology) is a microcellular polyurethane foam used in podiatry and orthotic fabrication for shock absorption, pressure redistribution, vibration dampening and patient comfort. It is commonly used as orthotic top covers, heel cushions, metatarsal pads, diabetic foot orthoses and protective padding. Unlike EVA or Plastazote, PPT is not thermoformable and is usually laminated to a structural material.
Physical Properties of PPT
- Microcellular polyurethane foam
- Excellent shock absorption
- Excellent pressure redistribution
- High vibration dampening
- Low compression set (<10%)
- Good durability
- Moderate abrasion and moisture resistance
- Not thermoformable
Clinical Applications of PPT
- Diabetes and neuropathy
- Heel pain and plantar fasciitis
- Fat pad atrophy
- Metatarsalgia
- Sports orthoses
- Arthritic feet
- Pressure relief and ulcer prevention
Limitations of PPT
- Provides minimal structural support
- Cannot control foot motion
- Cannot be heat moulded
- May wear faster than some top cover materials
Comparison: PPT vs Poron®
| Property | PPT® | PORON® |
|---|---|---|
| Shock absorption | Excellent | Excellent |
| Compression set | Low | Very low |
| Durability | Good | Excellent |
| Resilience | Good | Excellent |
| Consistency over time | Good | Excellent |
| Moisture resistance | Moderate | Better |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Advantages of Poron® over PPT
- Better long-term resilience
- Lower compression set
- Superior durability under repeated loading
- More consistent cushioning
- Better energy management
- Wider range of formulations
- Often preferred for premium orthotic devices
References
- Paton J, Jones RB, Stenhouse E, Bruce G. The Physical Characteristics of Materials Used in the Manufacture of Orthoses for Patients with Diabetes. Foot & Ankle International. 2007;28(10):1057–1063.
- University of Washington. Foams (Soft Interfaces) – Lab Safety, Tools and Techniques in Prosthetics and Orthotics.
- University of Plymouth Research Portal. The Physical Characteristics of Materials Used in the Manufacture of Orthoses for Patients with Diabetes.
- Elite Orthotics. Material Reference Sheet.
Frequently Asked Questions about PPT and Poron®
Q: Why do premium orthotics often use PORON®?
A: PORON® is widely used in premium orthotics because it combines excellent shock absorption with exceptional durability. Unlike many cushioning materials that gradually compress with use, PORON® maintains its cushioning properties over a much longer period.
Q: Does PORON® last longer than PPT®?
A: In most cases, yes. PORON® generally has a lower compression set, allowing it to recover its original thickness after repeated loading and maintain cushioning for longer.
Q: Are expensive cushioning materials worth the investment?
A: Higher-quality materials such as PORON® retain their cushioning properties for longer, reducing the need for frequent replacement and providing lasting comfort.
Q: Why do many premium orthotic brands choose PORON®?
A: PORON® offers excellent impact absorption, pressure redistribution, resilience and long-term durability. It is available in multiple densities for different clinical needs.
Q: Which orthotic material lasts longer: PORON® or PPT®?
A: Both materials are durable, but PORON® generally demonstrates better long-term resilience and is less likely to lose thickness over time.
Q: Which material is better for heel pain?
A: Both materials help reduce heel impact, but PORON® often maintains its cushioning performance for longer, making it a popular choice for chronic heel pain.
Q: Which orthotic material is better for standing all day?
A: PORON® is often preferred because it provides consistent cushioning and excellent resistance to compression during prolonged standing.
Q: Which orthotic material is commonly used by podiatrists?
A: Both PORON® and PPT® are commonly used. The choice depends on the patient's condition, activity level, footwear and budget.
Q: Which material is best for work boots?
A: Both perform well, but PORON® is often preferred for workers who spend long hours on hard surfaces due to its long-term resilience.
Q: Can both PORON® and PPT® be used in orthotics?
A: Yes. Both are widely used as cushioning top covers on custom and semi-custom orthotics to improve comfort and reduce pressure.
Q: What is PORON® made from?
A: PORON® is a high-performance microcellular polyurethane foam engineered for cushioning, impact protection and long-lasting resilience.
Q: What is PPT® made from?
A: PPT® is a microcellular polyurethane cushioning material designed to reduce pressure, absorb impact and improve underfoot comfort.
Q: Does body weight affect which material is best?
A: Yes. Heavier individuals often benefit from PORON® because it recovers its shape more effectively after repeated loading.
Q: Which orthotic material is better for runners?
A: PORON® is often preferred for high-mileage runners because it withstands repeated impacts while maintaining cushioning over time.
Q: Can PORON® help reduce foot fatigue?
A: Yes. PORON® helps absorb shock and redistribute pressure, making prolonged standing and walking more comfortable for many people.
Related Blogs:
What Poron is right for me? A complete guide...Use Poron to soften the blow on your patients' feet
