Effect of textured insoles on balance and gait in people with multiple sclerosis: an exploratory trial

Do Textured Insoles Affect Postural Control and Spatiotemporal Parameters of Gait and Plantar Sensation in People With Multiple Sclerosis?

“…To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no more than 2 studies have explored the efficacy of footwear intervention on gait and balance in the MS population [24,25]. Although there are differences between our and previous studies, mainly in terms of study design and outcome measures, we found the comparison worth discussing.…”

“…Although there are differences between our and previous studies, mainly in terms of study design and outcome measures, we found the comparison worth discussing. Dixon et al [25] reported that textured insoles had no significant immediate effect on gait variables compared with control conditions. However, they reported that after the 2-week intervention period, the insole intervention group demonstrated an increase in step and stride length.…”

“…Whereas Dixon et al [25] measured over-ground gait using an electronic walkway, we collected spatiotemporal parameters of gait with an instrumented treadmill. The main difference between measurement procedures relates to control of the participants' walking speed.…”

“…Conversely, no immediate effects were demonstrated in gait and balance performance in a group of 46 patients with MS who wore textured insoles. However, following a 2-week intervention phase of insole wear, improvements were observed in spatiotemporal parameters of gait [25], although it was unclear whether the response was a placebo or learning effect.…”

An alternative perspective on gatekeeping in clinical education

“…Improving balance and walking is, therefore, of primary importance in maintaining health, independence, and quality of life in pwMS. Textured shoe insoles have been shown to alter gait and balance, potentially improving stability, in clinical groups with known balance impairments [1,2]. Improved balance might encourage greater participation in physical activity with related general health benefits in pwMS.Purpose: To investigate whether long term wear of textured or smooth insoles alters gait and balance in pwMS.Methods/analysis: The study was a single blinded exploratory randomised controlled trial with three experimental arms: control group (no insole), smooth insole group (3 mm thick ethyl-vinyl-acetate) and textured insole group (3 mm thick EVA with pyramidal peaks).…”