Effects of three different posting methods on controlling abnormal subtalar pronation

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Orthotics and Prosthetics
• Podiatry

Background:

• Abnormal foot pronation can lead to various musculoskeletal issues.
• Orthotic devices are commonly used to manage foot deformities.
• Understanding the efficacy of different orthotic posting techniques is crucial for clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of different orthotic posting methods in controlling abnormal foot pronation.
• To compare the impact of forefoot, rear-foot, and combined posting on foot kinematics during ambulation.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-two participants with significant forefoot varus deformities were recruited.
• Computerized video motion analysis was used to assess foot motion during walking.
• Experimental conditions included walking with no orthosis, unposted orthotic shells, and orthotic shells with forefoot, rear-foot, or combined posting.

Main Results:

• Combined forefoot and rear-foot posting demonstrated superior reduction in maximal calf-to-calcaneus and calcaneus-to-vertical angles compared to forefoot posting alone.
• Rear-foot posting alone showed comparable results to combined posting in controlling these angles.
• All tested orthotic posting methods, including the orthotic shell alone, reduced the maximal calf-to-calcaneus angle compared to shoes alone.

Conclusions:

• For maximal control of rear-foot frontal-plane pronation, clinicians should consider combined posting or rear-foot posting alone.
• Forefoot posting alone and the use of an unposted orthotic shell also contribute to controlling rear-foot frontal-plane pronation.
• These findings provide valuable insights for selecting appropriate orthotic interventions for individuals with abnormal foot pronation.