Article

Over-the-counter foot orthoses are a cost-effective alternative to
custom-made devices. However, few studies have compared over-the-counter devices
and most biomechanical research involving orthoses has focused on rearfoot
biomechanics. OBJECTIVES:
To determine changes in multi-segment foot biomechanics
during shod walking in three commercially available over-the-counter devices: SOLE, SuperFeet and Powerstep when compared to no orthotic.
STUDY DESIGN:
Repeated measures, cross-sectional study. METHODS: Retroreflective markers were
placed on the right limb of 18 participants representing forefoot, midfoot,
rearfoot and shank segments. Three-dimensional kinematics were recorded using an
eight-camera motion capture system while participants walked on a treadmill and
the order of condition was randomized between four conditions: SOLE, SuperFeet,
Powerstep and no orthotic. RESULTS: All over-the-counter devices exhibited
significant decreases in plantar fascia strain compared to no orthotic and only
Powerstep exhibited significant decreases in peak rearfoot eversion. Medial
longitudinal arch deformation was not reduced for any over-the-counter device.
CONCLUSION: Different over-the-counter devices exhibited specific alterations in
rearfoot kinematics and all reduced plantar fascia strain by varying amounts.
These over-the-counter-specific kinematic changes should be taken into
consideration when recommending these devices as a treatment option. CLINICAL
RELEVANCE: Over-the-counter orthoses are a cost-effective alternative to
custom-made devices. We demonstrated that three commonly used over-the-counter
devices influence foot kinematics and plantar fascia strain differently.
Clinicians can use these results to provide more tailored treatment options for
their patients.
CI - (c) The International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics 2015.

Langue : ANGLAIS