Mechanical loading of the knee joint during lower extremity movement has previously been associated with severity and progression of osteoarthritis. Would you expect walking barefoot or wearing normal footwear (e.g. walking shoes) to decrease what researchers refer to as "dynamic knee loading"?
Study results published in the September 2006 issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism reveal gait analyses of 75 study participants while they walked barefoot and with their walking shoes. The participants had existing knee osteoarthritis. Knee adduction moment decreased 11.9 percent with barefoot walking. Other parameters also decreased significantly with barefoot walking, including:
- hip adduction moment
- hip internal rotation
- hip external rotation
Researchers concluded that shoes may increase loads and increase risk of joint damage on the lower extremity joints in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Related Resources:
- Guide to Osteoarthritis
- Osteoarthritis Screening Quiz
- Fast Facts About Osteoarthritis
- Test Your Knowledge: Osteoarthritis
- Step-by-Step: The Cause of Knee Pain
- How to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Photo by Andrzej Burak (iStockphoto)
This article doesn’t specify if barefoot walking is good or bad in relation to Osteoarthritis progression.
is osteoarthritis of knees considered a qualifying disease for social security disability?
BEWARE! If you have knee problems of any kind, do not wear these shoes to walk (esp. to walk the dog) I bought these shoes to help with Morten neuroma between toes. It did help this condition, but blew out my knee and after a terrible knee surgery which was not successful..I am looking at a knee replacement and only 50.
Also, very easy to lose your balance and twist ankle or fall and break wrist, etc.