Footwear for self-managing knee osteoarthritis symptoms: the footstep randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Purpose: Self-management strategies, exercise and weight control, are core treatment recommendations for people with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Biomechanical interventions such as “appropriate” footwear are included as a key self-management strategy in international OA guidelines due to the important role excessive knee joint loading plays in knee OA onset and progression. However, there is limited evidence to guide clinicians and patients on which footwear is best for knee OA. International guidelines advise shoes with shock absorbing properties and arch support features for knee OA patients.