Effects of orthopedic insoles on patients with knee osteoarthritis: A meta-analysis and systematic review

Recent clinical evidence supports that orthopaedic insoles, especially lateral-wedge insoles, can significantly benefit patients with knee osteoarthritis. The aim of this study is to explore the effects of orthopaedic insoles in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Randomized controlled trials evaluating the effects of orthopaedic insoles on patients with knee osteoarthritis, published up to 16 February 2021, were reviewed and outcomes quantitatively summarized.

A total of 15 studies from 13 randomized controlled trials that involved 1,086 participants were included in this study. All the included studies exhibited a moderate bias risk and were of acceptable quality. The pooled mean difference of pain determined by the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) was -1.21 (p < 0.001, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) -2.61-0.18) with a high heterogeneity (I2 = 75%). In the sensitivity analysis, the overall incidence was -0.20 (p= 0.62, 95% CI= -0.87-0.46) with an accepted heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). No difference was observed between the Asian and Caucasian groups (p= 0.28). No significant difference was found in the pain score, Lequesne index or functional improvements.

Meta-analysis revealed that orthopaedic insoles do not provide relief of pain or improve functionality in patients with knee osteoarthritis.