Skip to main content

Research Repository

Advanced Search

Foot orthoses for the prevention of lower limb overuse injuries in naval recruits: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

Foot orthoses for the prevention of lower limb overuse injuries in naval recruits: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Thumbnail


Abstract

BACKGROUND: Foot orthoses are frequently used for the prevention of lower limb overuse injuries but evidence for their effectiveness is limited. The primary aim of this study is to determine if prefabricated foot orthoses reduce the incidence of lower limb overuse injuries in naval recruits undertaking 11 weeks of basic training. METHODS: This study is a participant and assessor blinded, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial. The trial will recruit participants undertaking 11 weeks of basic training at the Royal Australian Navy Recruit School, Cerberus, Victoria, Australia. Participants will be randomised to a control group (flat insole) or an intervention group (prefabricated foot orthosis). Over the 11 weeks of basic training, participants will document the presence and location of pain in weekly self-report diaries. The end-point for each participant will be the completion of 11 weeks of basic training. The primary outcome measure will be the combined incidence of four lower limb injuries (medial tibial stress syndrome, patellofemoral pain, Achilles tendinopathy, and plantar fasciitis/plantar heel pain) which are common among defence members. Secondary outcome measures include: (i) overall incidence of lower limb pain, (ii) severity of lower limb pain, (iii) time to injury, (iv) time to drop-out due to injury, (v) adverse events, (vi) number of lost training days, (vii) shoe comfort, and (viii) general health status. Data will be analysed using the intention-to-treat principle. DISCUSSION: This randomised controlled trial will evaluate the effectiveness of prefabricated foot orthoses for the prevention of common lower limb overuse injuries in naval recruits. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12615000024549.

Acceptance Date Sep 3, 2015
Publication Date Sep 11, 2015
Publicly Available Date Mar 28, 2024
Journal Journal of Foot and Ankle Research
Publisher Springer Verlag
Pages 51 - ?
DOI https://doi.org/10.1186/s13047-015-0109-2
Keywords randomized controlled trial; prevention; orthotic devices; leg injuries; military personnel
Publisher URL http://jfootankleres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13047-015-0109-2

Files




Downloadable Citations