Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a common disorder of the knee that affects up to 25% of the population (Munuera & Mazoteras-Pardo, 2011). Patellofemoral pain syndrome is characterized by persistent pain of the knee made worse by climbing or descending stairs, sitting for extended periods of time, and squatting. The exact cause of patellofemoral pain syndrome is unknown, and hypotheses include muscular imbalances, bone irregularities, and joint dysfunction. One of the proposed mechanisms includes foot shape abnormalities and dysfunction. Foot shape and the motion of foot joints during gait (walking, jogging, running) varies from person to person, but the ideal motion and shape is consistent. If a foot has altered arches, such as being too low or collapsed, it can lead to changes in the function of joints in the foot during gait. These changes can result in an altered distribution of forces throughout the lower extremities and lead to chronic knee pain and dysfunction, especially in physically active youth and adults. This suggests that correction of foot shape abnormalities and the restoration of correct joint function will lead to a reduction in pain and increased function of the knee.

Correction of minor foot shape abnormalities and arch weakness can be treated in a variety of ways ranging from chiropractic manual therapy and foot strengthening exercises to custom made foot orthotics. One of the potential risk factors for patellofemoral pain syndrome is a tilt of the forefoot, called forefoot valgus, that results in a change in the biomechanics of gait. A small clinical trial published in the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics International examined the effects of custom orthotic inserts for shoes on the severity and frequency of knee pain in patients presenting with signs of patellofemoral pain syndrome. They found that knee pain scores were significantly improved in a four-week period with the use of custom foot orthotics (Munuera & Mazoteras-Pardo, 2011).

This study shows that foot orthotics have the potential to help patients with patellofemoral knee pain. A treatment plan that includes chiropractic manual therapy and specific rehabilitation exercises can support the use of custom orthotics to further improve patient outcomes. Dr. Ross and his team here at Excellence in Health Chiropractic look forward to serving your healthcare needs and continuing to be a leader in quality healthcare. Take charge of your health and get back to living the life you deserve; and as always, we wish you excellence in health.

References:

• Munuera, P. Mazoteras-Pardo, R. (2011). Benefits of custom-made foot orthoses in treating patellofemoral pain. Prosthetics and Orthotics, 35(4):342-349.

Link to Abstract:

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2194873