Effects of a Semi-Custom Foot Orthotic on Foot Biomechanics
Author Information
Author(s): Reed Ferber, Brittany Benson
Primary Institution: University of Calgary
Hypothesis
The SCO, whether moulded or non-moulded, would reduce peak rearfoot eversion, tibial internal rotation, arch deformation, and plantar fascia strain as compared to the no-orthoses condition.
Conclusion
A semi-custom moulded orthotic reduces plantar fascia strain compared to walking without an orthosis but does not control rearfoot, shank, or arch deformation.
Supporting Evidence
- Plantar fascia strain was reduced by 34% when participants walked in either the moulded or non-moulded SCO condition compared to no-orthoses.
- No significant differences were found in peak rearfoot eversion, tibial internal rotation, or medial longitudinal arch angles between any conditions.
- The heat-moulding process did not have a measurable effect on biomechanical variables compared to the non-moulded condition.
Takeaway
Wearing a special shoe insert can help reduce strain on the bottom of your foot when you walk, but it doesn't change how your foot moves in other ways.
Methodology
Twenty participants walked on a treadmill while wearing different orthotic conditions, and their foot movements were recorded using a motion capture system.
Potential Biases
The examiner was not blinded to the orthotic conditions during data collection.
Limitations
The study only measured one structural aspect of the foot and results are only applicable to walking, not running.
Participant Demographics
20 healthy individuals (9 males, 11 females; average age 24.6 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.03
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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