The American College of Sport Medicine in their journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise Vol. 43 No 9in 2011 recently looked at which patients would benefit from prefabricated orthotics for patellafemoral pain or knee cap pain. The study demonstrated that >78% of participants showed a “marked improvement” when they had 3 out 4 of the following factors:
- Ankle Dorsiflexion <41 degrees with knee flexed (ie calf flexibility)
- Single Leg Squat reduced pain with orthotic
- Usual Pain Levels in mild to moderate range
- Wear Poor Footwear (ie loafers, sandals, non rigid shoes )
There were limitations to this study but it provides patients with a low cost option as compared to custom orthotics that are generally significantly higher in cost and typically not covered by insurance. This study did not have a control group therefore it is unclear if some of the patients would improve by the end of the 12 week time period with simply the passage of time. Here is a link to the orthotics used in the study http://tinyurl.com/3rjgfdq.
I feel it can be a good compliment to the physical therapy program when its indicated. If you are unsure whether you are candidate for orthotics contact us at Apex Orthopedic Rehabilitation for a complimentary evaluation This is open for former patients and anyone from the Paramus, Ridgewood and the greater Bergen County.