Context:
The effects of custom-molded foot orthotics on neuromuscular processes are not clearly understood.
Objective:
To examine these effects on postural control in subjects with different foot types.
Design:
Between-groups, repeated-measures design.
Setting:
Athletic training laboratory.
Subjects:
30 healthy subjects assigned to groups by foot type: planus (n = 11), rectus (n = 12), or cavus (n = 7).
Interventions:
Custom-fit semirigid orthotics.
Main Outcome Measures:
Static postural control was measured on a force plate. Dynamic postural control was measured using the Star Excursion Balance Test. Both measurements were assessed with and without orthotics at baseline and 2 weeks later.
Results:
For static postural control, a significant condition-by-group interaction was found. Subjects with cavus feet had a decreased center-of-pressure velocity while wearing orthotics. For dynamic postural control, a significant condition-by-direction-by-group interaction was found. Subjects with cavus feet had increased reach distances in 3 of 8 directions while wearing orthotics.
Conclusions:
Custom orthotics were associated with some improvements in static and dynamic postural control in subjects with cavus feet.
