Kinesiophobia following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Kinesiophobia is an irrational and debilitating fear of physical movement frequently occurring following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. It is a major limiting factor in return to sport after ACL reconstruction and is associated with worse knee function and increased risk of a secondary ACL rupture. Kinesiophobia can be identified using the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia. Addressing kinesiophobia early in rehabilitation is crucial, as it can lead to non-adherence to rehabilitation. While cognitive therapy has shown promise in treating kinesiophobia, further research is needed in this area.

Can an off-the-rack orthotic stiletto alter pressure and comfort scores in the forefoot, arch and heel?

The study sought to investigate whether an orthotic stiletto could modulate the pressure and comfort under the forefoot, arch and heel that stiletto wearers experience. Twenty-two women participated. We measured the peak pressure and pressure-time integral for orthotic stilettos with built-in metatarsal pad, heel cup and arch support; standard stilettos without inlays; and trainers. Comfort was recorded during 3 × 3 working days. The orthotic stiletto exhibited lower metatarsal head1 (MTH) and MTH2+3 and heel pressures than the standard stiletto (p < .01), and a long second metatarsal increased MTH2+3 pressure (p < .01). The comfort in the forefoot and heel was higher in the orthotic stiletto than in the standard one (p < .01), and comfort in the forefoot was correlated to the pressure-time integral of MTH2+3 (p = .03) and not peak pressure. Off-the-rack orthotic stilettos can notably reduce plantar pressures and improve forefoot and heel comfort during everyday use. Practitioner Summary: Off-the-rack orthotic stilettos with built-in metatarsal pad, arch support and heel caps can lower the pressure under the heel and forefoot in comparison with a standard stiletto and can improve comfort during everyday use. Having a long second metatarsal is a risk factor for increased forefoot pressure.