Effects of foot orthoses on quality of life for individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome

STUDY DESIGN: Repeated-measures analysis of intervention. OBJECTIVES: To determine the effects of foot orthoses on quality of life for individuals with patellofemoral pain who demonstrate excessive foot pronation. BACKGROUND: Foot orthoses are a common intervention for patients with patellofemoral pain. Limited information is available, however, regarding the effects of foot orthoses on quality of life for these patients. METHODS AND MEASURES: Sixteen subjects with patellofemoral pain who also exhibited signs of excessive foot pronation were studied. Subjects underwent a 2-week period of baseline study followed by custom foot orthotic intervention. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) was administered to subjects at the time of screening, just prior to foot orthotic intervention, and at 2 weeks and 3 months following foot orthotic intervention. RESULTS: Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test results indicated statistically significant improvements in the pain and stiffness subscales 2 weeks following the start of foot orthotic intervention. All WOMAC subscale scores were significantly improved at 3 months compared with preintervention measurements. CONCLUSIONS: Custom-fitted foot orthoses may improve patellofemoral pain symptoms for patients who demonstrate excessive foot pronation.