#PTonICE Daily Show
Episode 1949 - Stimulating footwear: hype or helpful?
Apr 2, 2025
Discover the debate surrounding stimulating foot orthotics designed to enhance balance in older adults. Dr. Dustin Jones discusses a recent study showing minimal benefits and raises concerns about misleading marketing aimed at seniors. He differentiates these trendy products from traditional orthotics that address mechanical issues, urging caution for those considering purchase. Tune in for a critical look at what works and what doesn't, and learn how to better support older patients in their physical therapy journey.
12:37
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Quick takeaways
- Stimulating foot orthotics, although marketed to improve balance for older adults, often lack empirical support and require critical evaluation.
- While these orthotics may provide some benefits in stable conditions, they must be cautiously recommended, particularly for individuals with comorbidities.
Deep dives
Skepticism Around Stimulating Foot Orthotics
There is growing concern regarding marketing claims of stimulating foot orthotics, particularly how they promise to improve balance for older adults. Many previous products marketed towards this demographic lack empirical support, leading to skepticism among healthcare professionals. Despite the increased visibility of these new orthotics featuring knobs designed to stimulate foot mechanoreceptors, their actual effectiveness may not be as groundbreaking as suggested. This skepticism is rooted in the tendency of older adults to be bombarded with products that often fail to deliver on their promises, which calls for a critical evaluation of the evidence behind these orthotics.
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