BACKGROUND:

Walking boots are prescribed after foot and ankle injuries, allowing immediate ambulation for patients. However, temporary limb-length inequality (LLI) may result, causing dysfunction and pain, including low back pain. The Evenup™ shoe-lift was designed to eliminate joint pathology, pain, and gait deviations resulting from walking-boot-induced LLI, yet no clinical trials have been reported on its effectiveness. METHODS:

Thirty-four subjects undergoing unilateral lower-extremity orthopedic medical and rehabilitative care were recruited for this study. Seventeen subjects were assigned to an intervention group using a walking boot on the foot of their involved side and the Evenup™ on the other foot, while the control group used a walking boot only on the involved side. Outcome measures included the lower extremity functional scale (LEFS), modified Oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire (OSW), numeric pain rating scale, ankle range of motion (ROM) and strength. RESULTS:

All subjects, regardless of the intervention, demonstrated improved function, decreased pain, increased ROM, and increased strength. Additionally, a clinically relevant difference was found between the intervention and control groups for the OSW and LEFS. CONCLUSION:

LEFS and OSW results suggest Evenup™ use added value in the form of improved patient function.