J LaCourse, J Sims, M Bharadwaj, G Ampat

1547 PREFABRICATED ORTHOTICS WITH AND WITHOUT A METATARSAL PAD TO DECREASE PAIN AND FEAR OF FALLING IN OLDER ADULTS

  • Geriatrics and Gerontology
  • Aging
  • General Medicine
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Abstract Background Foot pain in older adults may reduce physical activity, resulting in impaired mobility and an increased risk of falls. Orthotics, both with and without a metatarsal pad, may provide foot pain relief and improved stability. Objective Compare the use of Aetrex orthotics with and without a metatarsal pad in decreasing pain and fear of falling in older adults. Methods: 206 participants over 60 years old were randomised into the intervention group, who received Aetrex L2305 Orthotics with a metatarsal pad, or the control group, who received Aetrex L2300 Orthotics with no metatarsal pad. At baseline and 6-week follow-up, musculoskeletal pain was reported via Numerical Rating Scales (NRS), foot pain and functionality via the Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ), and fear of falling via the Short Falls Efficacy Scale International. Results Both groups reported significant improvements in pain in the back, hips, knees, ankles, and feet using the NRS (P < 0.001). Using the FHSQ, foot pain significantly improved in both the intervention (x-= 18.47 ±20.58, P < 0.001) and control group (x-= 17.21 ±18.74, P < 0.001). Function also improved significantly in both groups (x-= 18.35 ±20.67, P < 0.001 and x- = 15.07 ±20.15, P < 0.001, respectively), as did fear of falling (x-= 1.55 ±3.79, P < 0.001 and x-= 1.23 ±3.53, P < 0.001, respectively). No statistically significant difference was observed between groups for any outcome (P > 0.05). Conclusion Aetrex orthotics, with and without metatarsal pads, decrease pain and fear of falling in older adults.

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