Lower Extremity Review
Sensory feedback research from Colorado appears to challenge the popular belief that barefoot runners tend to adopt a forefoot-strike pattern to avoid the discomfort of landing on an unprotected heel.
A study of National Hockey League (NHL) injuries adds to the evidence suggesting concussion significantly increases the risk of lower body injury in athletes, and vice-versa.
The multiple factors that contribute to the risk of falls in older adults present a complicated clinical puzzle, but researchers are making progress on putting some of those pieces together, as evidenced by several studies presented in late May and early June at the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) annual meeting in Denver.
Ankle proprioception peaks in young adulthood, and in elderly individuals—even the healthiest—declines to levels similar to those of adolescents, according to research presented in early June at the American College of Sports Medicine annual meeting in Denver.
Use of carbon-fiber ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) assists with propulsion in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) without compromising calf muscle integrity, according to research from the University of Montana in Missoula.
A person’s testimony doesn’t always agree with objective evidence—that’s why some defense attorneys won’t allow their clients to take the stand during a trial, even in their own defense. Similarly, as most clinicians know, patient-reported outcomes aren’t always consistent with objective measures of function.
By Jordana Bieze Foster, Editor
Given the heterogeneity of many patient populations for whom ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) are indicated, it’s not surprising that AFO experts are at the forefront of the current trend favoring customization of devices to meet individual patient needs. Research presented in May at the 2017 International Society of Prosthetics & Orthotics (ISPO) World Congress in Cape Town, South Africa, illustrated some of the many ways AFO stiffness and alignment can be optimized in the interest of patient-centric care.
Less may be more when it comes to knee bracing in some patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) and patellofemoral pain (PFP), according to studies of soft knee braces presented in May at the 2017 ISPO World Congress in Cape Town, South Africa.
A scientific approach to insole design can help reduce plantar pressures associated with diabetic footwear, in turn reducing the risk of plantar ulcerations, according to research presented in May at the 2017 ISPO World Congress in Cape Town, South Africa.
Studies presented in May at the 2017 ISPO World Congress in Cape Town, South Africa, added to knee experts’ understanding of the mechanisms underlying distal interventions to reduce pain and joint loading in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis (OA).
Computer modeling is facilitating advances in insole development for patients with diabetic neuropathy and rheumatoid arthritis, according to data presented in May at the 2017 ISPO World Congress in Cape Town, South Africa.
The latest paper to challenge biomechanics-based foot orthotic management concepts developed decades ago has revitalized a long-running discussion among foot specialists about how to define normal structure and function and which assessments should be used in prescribing foot orthoses.
By Cary Groner
Although there may be benefits to a change in running footwear, there are also risks associated with a switch to minimalist running shoes. Alterations in anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics associated with transitioning to minimalist footwear are likely to be unique to each runner.
By J. Todd Walker, MD; Donna Moxley Scarborough, PT, MS; Eric M. Berkson, MD; and Matthew J. Salzler, MD
Aging and a number of medical conditions can lead to atrophy of the fat pads under the heel and forefoot, which often causes considerable pain. Cushioned footwear and orthoses are mainstays of treatment, but research also supports the use of fat grafting in recalcitrant cases.
By Barbara Boughton
The Adrenaline GTS 17 from Brooks Sports has been updated with a more streamlined look and softer feel underfoot. The Adrenaline shoe still features a secure, comfortable fit while providing support, and is equipped with a full-length segmented crash pad to accommodate…
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