The Effect of 2 Different Custom-Molded Corrective Orthotics on Plantar Pressure

Context: Because of research variability and the increasing use of orthotics to manage lower extremity problems, further research is warranted. Objective: To investigate the effect of rear-foot- and forefoot-posted (PAL) and mediolongitu-dinal arch-supported (SOLE) orthotics on plantar pressure (PP) during walking. Design: Repeated measures. Setting: Laboratory. Participants: 17 subjects with forefoot varus. Intervention: Data were collected at 0 and 6 weeks for no-orthotic and orthotic conditions. Measurements: PPs were collected with the EMED Pedar measurement system. Results: Zero weeks: PAL increased PP in lateral forefoot (LFF), middle toes (MT), and lateral toes (LT) and decreased PP in lateral heel (LH), medial forefoot (MFF), and central forefoot (CFF). SOLE increased PP for midfoot (MF) and LT and decreased PP in medial heel (MH), LH, and CFF. 6 weeks: PAL increased PP in LFF, MT, and LT and decreased PP in LH, MFF, and CFF. SOLE increased PP in MF and decreased PP in MH, LH, and LFF. Conclusion: The SOLE orthotic appeared to be more effective in attaining the goals of custom-molded-orthotic intervention.