A recently published single-blind randomised control trial has demonstrated the clinical efficacy of foot orthoses in the treatment of anterior knee pain (i.e. patellofemoral pain syndrome). 40 subjects with anterior knee pain of at least 6 weeks duration who had not been treated with foot orthoses in the previous 5 years were divided into a control group (n = 20) that received no treatment and an intervention group (n = 20) that received foot orthoses. The clinical observation period was 6 weeks.
Results of the study showed that there was a significant global improvement (i.e. subjective pain reduction) with foot orthoses when compared to control (p = 0.0008). Of the orthosis group, 9 were much improved, 6 were improved, 4 showed no change and 1 dropped out. In the control group, 1 was much improved, 3 were improved, 15 showed no change and 1 became worse. Interestingly, subjects that demonstrated an increased change in midfoot width from weightbearing to non-weightbearing of more than 11.25 mm were more likely to report a successful outcome with foot orthoses (Mills K, Blanch P, Dev P, Martin M, Vicenzino B: A randomised control trial of short term efficacy of in-shoe foot orthoses compared with a wait and see policy for anterior knee pain and the role of foot mobility. Br J Sports Med, 46:247-252, 2011.)
This study adds significantly to other scientific research that also demonstrates the clinical efficacy of foot orthoses in treating anterior knee pain (Eng JJ, Pierrynowski MR: Evaluation of soft foot orthotics in the treatment of patellofemoral pain syndrome. Phys Therapy, 73:62-70, 1993; Collins N, Crossley K, Beller E, et al: Foot orthoses and physiotherapy in the treatment of patellofemoral pain syndrome: randomised clinical trial. BMJ, 337:a1735, 2008.)
So if you or anyone you know is suffering from anterior knee pain or other joint pains, come on into our office to get fitted for custom made orthotics. These devices are often covered by insurance companies for eligible patients. Call our office or stop by for more information.
