CME OnDemand: 2022 AOFAS Annual Meeting-Use of Flexible Carbon Fiber Insoles for Hallux Rigidus: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Pdf Summary

A randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare the effectiveness of using flexible carbon fiber insoles versus rigid Morton's extension insoles in the management of hallux rigidus. The study aimed to determine if the use of flexible insoles would lead to reduced pain, higher physical function, and better compliance rates.<br /><br />The results showed that using flexible carbon fiber insoles led to a significant reduction in pain interference and pain intensity scores at 6 and 12 weeks compared to Morton's extension insoles. The compliance rate in the flexible insole group was 100% at 2, 6, and 12 weeks, while the Morton group had compliance rates of 83%, 83%, and 50%. Patients wearing carbon fiber insoles also reported higher comfort levels.<br /><br />There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of global health, physical function, and depression scores at 2, 6, and 12 weeks. The study included four males and nine females with a mean age of 56 years who were diagnosed with 1st metatarsophalangeal arthritis. Participants were randomly assigned to either the flexible carbon fiber insole group or the Morton's extension insole group.<br /><br />The study concluded that patients with hallux rigidus may benefit from wearing more flexible carbon fiber insoles instead of traditional rigid orthotic insoles. These flexible insoles can provide mechanical shielding for the hallux while allowing some motion, similar to interphalangeal fusion procedures.<br /><br />Overall, the findings suggest that the use of flexible carbon fiber insoles can improve pain management and compliance in patients with hallux rigidus.

Asset Subtitle

Rohan Bhimani, MD, MBA, Pongpanot Sornsakrin, MD, Michael A. Vrolyk, PA-C, Bart Lubberts, MD, PhD, Daniel Guess, MD, MBA, Christopher W. DiGiovanni, MD, Gregory R. Waryasz, MD

Keywords

randomized controlled trial

flexible carbon fiber insoles

rigid Morton's extension insoles

hallux rigidus

pain reduction

physical function

compliance rates

comfort levels

metatarsophalangeal arthritis

orthotic insoles