Effects of Custom-made Insoles on Plantar Biomechanics and Upper Extremity Muscle Performance
Yi Xu1,2, Qing-Hua Hou3, Xiu-Lan Han4
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, the 7th Affiliated Hospital, Sun-Yat Sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
Current Medical Science
|November 30, 2021
Summary
Custom-made foot insoles, molded using a simple technique to align the subtalar joint, effectively improve foot biomechanics and enhance upper body strength in women experiencing foot pain.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Foot pain is a common ailment affecting many women.
- Current treatments may not be accessible or effective for all populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of custom-made insoles created by repositioning the subtalar joint.
- To assess the impact of these insoles on plantar biomechanics and upper body strength.
Main Methods:
- Twenty female patients with foot pain participated in the study.
- Insoles were custom-molded based on biomechanical evaluations with the subtalar joint in neutral position.
- Plantar biomechanics, upper arm muscle strength, and subjective comfort were measured before and after intervention.
Main Results:
- Molded insoles increased plantar contact area and improved its distribution during standing and walking.
- Significant improvements were observed in the medial arch area's loading rate.
- Insoles led to immediate increases in upper arm muscle strength and duration, alongside enhanced foot comfort.
Conclusions:
- A simple method for molding custom insoles by aligning the subtalar joint is effective and applicable.
- These custom insoles provide immediate improvements in plantar biomechanics and upper body muscle performance for women with foot pain.
