An evaluation of a bespoke modified UCBL foot orthosis on subjects with flat foot using kinetic measurements and user comfort scores: A randomized controlled trial

Aim

The purpose of this study was to assess and evaluate the effect of a bespoke Modified UCBL Foot Orthosis (MUFO) using both kinetic parameters (Centre of Pressure (CoP) and the Ground Reaction Force (GRF) pattern) and comfort scores in subjects diagnosed with flat foot.

Method

This study included thirty-four young adults with symptomatic flatfeet. Two Kistler force plates (100 Hz) were used to record the CoP sway and GRF pattern during four conditions; 1) an MUFO and standard-fit shoe; 2) the University of California-Berkley Lab (UCBL) insole and standard-fit shoe; 3) barefoot and 4) standard-fit shoe only. The magnitude of subject comfort with UCBL and MUFO also was measured by a 10 cm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) during walking.

Results

The MUFO decreased mean lateral displacement in the initial phase and midstance of gait compared to barefoot walking. During the propulsion phase use of the new MUFO produced more lateral excursion with a mean difference of 3 mm) P < 0.001(compared to barefoot walking and standard shoe wear. No significant difference in comfort rate was found between the MUFO and UCBL (P = 0.165).

Conclusion

The MUFO produced effective pronation control and decreased the CoP displacement in all of stance phase.