The Efficiency of Insoles on Quality of Life, Functional Balance and Mobility in Elderly People
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Published on: October 6, 2016
Sara Eftekhari1, Atefeh Aboutorabi1,2, Zhale Zandieh3,4
1Department of Orthotics and Prosthetics, School of Rehabilitation, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Objective:
Ageing leads to declines in physiological function, impairing mobility, and increasing the risk of falls. Muscle atrophy, particularly in the intrinsic foot muscles, exacerbates these issues. This study evaluates the effects of two types of insoles on balance, mobility, and quality of life in older adults.
Methods:
A controlled clinical trial was conducted with 30 participants aged 60 and older assigned to either a thin rigid heel cup insole (TRHI) or a toe-grip insole (TGI). Primary outcomes, including balance, mobility, and quality of life, were assessed using the Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and the SF-36 questionnaire, at baseline and after one month of use.
Results:
Both groups were comparable at baseline (p > 0.05). Significant improvements were observed in the TGI group regarding quality of life, functional balance, and mobility (p < 0.05), with pain reductions (p < 0.001). While both groups showed within-group improvements, the TGI group demonstrated superior mobility (p < 0.05).
Conclusion:
Both types of insoles improved balance, mobility, and pain in the elderly, with greater benefits for mobility was shown in TGI group. These findings suggest that insoles can effectively enhance balance, reduce fall risk, and improve quality of life and functional independence in elderly individuals.
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