The effect of foot and ankle orthoses on balance and gait in patients with neuropathy

Neuropathy is common in people with chronic conditions such as diabetes mellitus, but can also result from cancer treatments such as chemotherapy. People with neuropathy may experience symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain and/or muscle weakness in the feet. This can lead to walking and balance problems and increase the risk of falling. Podiatric interventions, such as orthotic therapy and adapted footwear, may help to improve these symptoms. However, it is not known which interventions are most effective.

A systematic literature review is being carried out with the aim of gaining insight into the effect of foot and ankle orthoses on balance, gait and falls in people with neuropathy.

The search and inclusion based on title, abstract and full text have been completed. The researchers are currently carrying out data extraction and a risk of bias assessment.

Podiatry, therapy, foot and ankle aids, neuropathy

Collaborating partners: Amsterdam UMC

Funding bodies: Rondom Podiatrists

Link to website: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024587657