Knee Joint Load Reduction by using Lateral Wedge Insole in Different Body Mass Index Level Females

Abstract

Background: The higher body mass index is a risk factor that associated with onset and progression of knee osteoarthritis by increasing the knee adduction moment. Lateral wedge insoles are used for reducing the knee adduction moment which may prevent the occurrence of knee osteoarthritis in healthy population.Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the lateral wedge insole among normal, overweight, obese I and obese II female while walking.Methods: A cross-sectional experimental design study was used to investigate 80 females who aged between 18 – 40 years using 3-D Motion Analysis. The peak external knee adduction moment was collected in walking shoes and walking shoes with 5-degree lateral wedge insoles conditions. The significant difference was determined using Paired-T test (p = 0.05).Results: The peak external knee adduction moment was significantly decreased by the effect of shoes with lateral wedge insoles in normal, overweight and obese I (22.12%, 18.34% and 24.15%). However, it did not change in the obese II.Conclusion: The peak external knee adduction moment was decreased by the immediate effect of lateral wedge insoles. It may prevent the onset of knee osteoarthritis in normal, overweight, and obese I. Further study should investigate long term effect of lateral wedge insoles on the knee joint load and the effect of dose in higher body mass index.