Document Type : Original Research
Authors
1 Department of Orthotics and Prosthetics, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2 Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
3 Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
Abstract
Background: Chronic Low Back Pain (LBP) remains a pervasive global health concern. Foot Pronation (FP), by affecting anatomical alignment, has been identified as a contributing factor to nonspecific chronic LBP. Patients with chronic LBP often exhibit impaired proprioception, which may aggravate symptoms.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a modified lumbar belt, independently and in combination with custom-made insoles, in alleviating back pain and disability in patients with FP. Outcomes were also compared with those of a standard prefabricated belt.
Material and Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted involving 45 individuals diagnosed with nonspecific chronic LBP and FP. Using block randomization, participants were allocated to four groups: (1) prefabricated belt, (2) modified belt, (3) custom-made insole, and (4) modified belt combined with insole. Pain and disability were assessed at baseline and after six weeks using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI).
Results: All groups demonstrated significantly greater pain reduction compared to the standard belt group. However, no significant difference in pain reduction was observed among the insole, modified belts, and combined groups. The greatest improvement in disability was observed in the combined group, significantly surpassing all others. Custom-made insoles alone also led to a notable reduction in disability compared to the standard belt.
Conclusion: The modified lumbar belt proved more effective than the prefabricated version in managing pain and disability among patients with FP. Combined use with custom-made insoles further enhanced outcomes, highlighting the benefit of integrated interventions.
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