Foot pain among older adults is a prevalent issue that can significantly diminish quality of life. A recent research paper titled "Assessing the Acceptability and Effectiveness of a Novel Therapeutic Footwear in Reducing Foot Pain and Improving Function among Older Adults" by M.G. Finco et al. (2024) seeks to address this issue through a well-designed therapeutic footwear solution. This blog post reviews the study’s objectives, methods, findings, and conclusions, highlighting its implications for the target population.
Objectives
The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of OrthoFeet therapeutic footwear in alleviating foot pain among older adults suffering from moderate to severe discomfort. The researchers hypothesised that the novel shoes would not only significantly reduce pain but also be more favored by users when compared to their existing footwear. This hypothesis aligns with the recognition that proper footwear can play a vital role in managing foot health, but conventional designs often deter regular use among older adults.
Methods
The study employed a 12-week crossover randomized controlled trial involving 50 participants with an average age of 65. Participants were randomly assigned to either the AB or BA sequence, allowing them to wear the therapeutic shoes for six weeks followed by their own shoes for the remaining six weeks, or vice-versa. Foot pain and functional ability were measured using the Foot Function Index, while the acceptability of the footwear was assessed through a Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) questionnaire. Statistical analyses, including t-tests and generalised linear models, were utilised to interpret the collected data effectively.
Findings
The results of the study were compelling. Participants who wore the OrthoFeet shoes demonstrated significant reductions in foot pain and improved overall function. Notably, metrics such as "foot pain at its worst" and "overall Foot Function Index score" showed statistically significant improvement. Additionally, adherence rates were impressive, with participants wearing the shoes for an average of 8 hours a day, five days a week. The TAM results corroborated these findings, revealing that participants felt the therapeutic shoes were easier to use and more beneficial. Furthermore, aesthetic considerations played a crucial role, with the majority of participants preferring the stylish design of the OrthoFeet shoes over their previous footwear.
Conclusion
This research underlines the critical role of design and fit in encouraging the regular use of therapeutic footwear and the benefits of mindful, medically informed footwear choices for older adults. The study not only provides evidence of the effectiveness of OrthoFeet shoes in reducing foot pain but also emphasises the importance of acceptability factors, including style and ease of use. While the immediate results are promising, the authors call for further research to assess the long-term impacts of this intervention. Overall, this study represents a significant step towards improving foot health and quality of life for older adults, encouraging the continued exploration of innovative solutions in the realm of therapeutic footwear.
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