Discover the Benefits of Foot Orthoses for Kids with Flat Feet: Insights from Recent Research
---
Welcome to another post in our ORIEMS FIT Research Digest series! Each week, we bring you fascinating, research-backed insights that could impact health and wellness. This week’s topic is about foot orthoses (FOs)—specially designed shoe inserts that can be used to help kids with flat feet. Why is this important? Flat feet are common in children and can sometimes cause discomfort, especially for those with certain conditions like juvenile arthritis. Let’s dive into a recent study that explores how these orthoses might support kids with flat feet.
Research Article Name:
"Foot Orthoses for Treating Paediatric Flat Feet"
Authors:
Angela M. Evans, Keith Rome, Matthew Carroll, Fiona Hawke
Who Conducted This Research?
This study was carried out by researchers from La Trobe University in Melbourne, AUT University in New Zealand, and The University of Newcastle in Australia, known institutions for their work in health sciences. These universities are respected worldwide for conducting quality research in podiatry and healthcare.
What Is This Study About?
This study reviews whether foot orthoses help children with flat feet, focusing on kids with two types of flat feet:
- Asymptomatic Flat Feet: This type of flat foot does not cause pain or walking problems.
- Flat Feet with Conditions (Like Juvenile Arthritis): Here, flat feet might lead to pain and impact daily activities.
Who Was This Study Done On?
Researchers reviewed data from 1,058 children, aged from just under 1 year to 19 years old, who either had asymptomatic flat feet, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, or other specific conditions.
Research Methods
They looked at 16 randomized controlled trials to compare custom and prefabricated orthoses (FOs) with regular shoes. The research evaluated outcomes such as pain relief, functional improvement, and quality of life for children using FOs versus those using only shoes.
Positive Findings of the Research
- Pain Relief: Children with juvenile arthritis experienced less pain when using custom orthoses compared to regular shoes.
- Improvement in Function: For kids with arthritis, custom orthoses improved their ability to move around better.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Kids using custom orthoses reported feeling better overall, both personally and as rated by their parents.
Why Could EMS Help for Certain Problems?
EMS, or Electrical Muscle Stimulation, can work alongside orthoses by stimulating muscles, which may help the foot adapt better to the orthoses. For those dealing with pain, EMS may provide extra support and comfort, making orthoses more effective in daily life.
How This Study Helps EMS Device Users
For those using EMS devices to aid in foot health, this research shows that combining EMS with orthoses could help improve movement and reduce discomfort, especially in conditions like juvenile arthritis.
Research Paper Link: Click HERE
For more details, you can view the full research paper on the Cochrane Library website: . Cochrane is a trustworthy source, known for providing evidence-based healthcare insights.
About ORIEMS FIT Research Digest
ORIEMS FIT Research Digest is all about sharing intriguing research and encouraging you to explore health insights. We hope this post inspires your curiosity and maybe even prompts you to start your own in-depth research journey!
Disclaimer: This post is for informational and recreational purposes only. It is not medical advice. For full details on our disclaimer, visit: ORIEMS FIT Disclaimer.
