Impact of Shoe Sole Shape on Knee Movement in Individuals with Knee Osteoarthritis

Descrizione riassuntiva dello studio

Osteoarthritis in the knee often arises from repeated or excessive strain in daily activities, such as walking or climbing stairs. This gradually degrades the cartilage in the knee joint, leading to severe pain. It is estimated that more than half of individuals with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis will eventually require a knee replacement. This not only poses a significant burden on those affected but also costs the healthcare system a lot of money. Knee osteoarthritis is particularly common in individuals whose legs are in a bow-legged position. This typically places significant stress on only one side of the knee. It has been shown that special shoes and insoles can alter the strain while walking and thus alleviate pain. However, their effectiveness is limited, and they are often uncomfortable. Therefore, they do not significantly slow the progression of the disease. In our study, we aim to test the effect of a shoe prototype currently in development. The shoe features a modified sole shape and stiffness, which could positively influence walking and knee strain. To determine how these shoes affect knee movement, we utilize a specialized X-ray system at ETH Zurich. The device moves along a rail and follows the test subject while simultaneously capturing X-ray images of the affected knee.

(BASEC)

Intervento studiato

The shoe is a prototype. The shoe soles are manufactured using 3D printing technology by swissbiomechanics AG and are characterized by a special sole shape. Both the material properties and the geometric features of the sole are designed to specifically support the potential benefits of foot eversion.

At the Institute of Biomechanics at ETH Zurich, a gait analysis will be conducted using the shoe prototype, a neutral shoe, and a neutral shoe with a laterally elevated insole. This allows for the examination of gait patterns, foot positioning, and the alignment of the lower limbs.

(BASEC)

Malattie studiate

Knee Osteoarthritis Knee osteoarthritis is a chronic, progressive condition characterized by the degradation of cartilage in the knee joint. This leads to pain, reduced mobility, and in many cases, the necessity for a knee replacement in advanced stages.

(BASEC)

Sponsor

William R. Taylor

(BASEC)

Nome del comitato etico approvante (per studi multicentrici solo il comitato principale)

Commissione etica Zurigo

(BASEC)

Data di approvazione del comitato etico

17.10.2025

(BASEC)

Risultati dello studio