Foot orthoses, or shoe inserts, are commonly used to correct or improve the function of the feet and lower limbs. They can be particularly beneficial for individuals with musculoskeletal conditions, helping to alleviate pain, enhance mobility, and improve quality of life. The type of foot orthoses used can significantly impact their effectiveness, and recent research suggests that medially wedged foot orthoses may offer greater biomechanical benefits than their thin-flexible counterparts.
Medially wedged foot orthoses are inserts that are thicker on the inner side, creating a wedge shape. This design aims to correct foot alignment, redistribute pressure, and optimize lower limb biomechanics. On the other hand, thin-flexible foot orthoses are less rigid and provide less structural support, focusing more on comfort and cushioning.
The study in question examined the effects of these two types of foot orthoses during a unilateral drop jump task, a physical activity that involves jumping off a platform with one foot and landing on the same foot. This task was performed on both level and inclined surfaces to assess the orthoses’ impact under different conditions.
The findings suggest that medially wedged foot orthoses are more effective than thin-flexible foot orthoses in optimizing lower limb biomechanics during unilateral drop jump landings. This means that they may provide better support, alignment, and stability, potentially reducing the risk of injury and enhancing performance.
Interestingly, the study found that the biomechanical effects of the orthoses did not increase on inclined surfaces. This could suggest that the benefits of medially wedged foot orthoses are consistent across different terrains, providing reliable support regardless of the surface’s angle.
Moreover, the study found that medially wedged foot orthoses generated greater effects on proximal joints, such as the hip. This highlights their potential to improve hip stability and enhance overall lower limb function. Improved hip stability can be particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions affecting the hip joint, as it can help to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life.
The study concludes by suggesting that personalized foot orthoses selection based on specific biomechanical profiles should be further explored. This means that the type of foot orthoses used should ideally be tailored to the individual’s unique needs and characteristics, such as their foot shape, gait pattern, and specific musculoskeletal condition. This personalized approach could help to optimize orthotic interventions, maximizing their benefits and improving outcomes for individuals with musculoskeletal conditions.
In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of medially wedged foot orthoses, particularly in terms of optimizing lower limb biomechanics and improving hip stability. However, further research is needed to fully understand the implications of these findings and to develop personalized orthotic interventions that can provide the greatest benefits for individuals with musculoskeletal conditions.
To read the full journal article, head to https://www.clinbiomech.com/article/S0268-0033(24)00025-1/fulltext?rss=yes