Footwear and Orthoses Reduce Pain in Patients With Osteoarthritis of the Big Toe

Osteoarthritis affecting the big toe joint (metatarsophalangeal joint osteoarthritis) is a common and disabling condition. Prefabricated foot orthoses and rocker-sole footwear (in which the sole of the shoe is curved) are effective at reducing peak pressure under the big toe in people with metatarsophalangeal joint osteoarthritis.

New research suggests that both the footwear achieve this through different mechanisms. Also, rocker-sole shoes exhibited lower peak pressure under the lesser toes and midfoot, while orthoses increased peak pressure in these areas.

‘Osteoarthritis affecting the big toe joint is a common and disabling condition. Prefabricated foot orthoses and rocker-sole footwear are effective at reducing peak pressure under the big toe.’

Investigators observed that both were similarly effective for relieving big toe joint pain in patients; however, prefabricated foot orthoses may be the intervention of choice because patients were more likely to use them, and they were less likely to cause back pain, discomfort, or impaired balance.

Prof. Hylton Menz, lead author of the Arthritis Care & Research studies, which were funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia, "Our research suggests that footwear and orthoses may help alleviate pain by altering the distribution of load under the foot when walking."

Source: Eurekalert