Orthotics may help prevent back pain.
A new study found that when subjects were given a custom-made orthotic, six weeks later their symptoms of back pain were significantly lower compared to subjects who were put on a wait list and received no treatment.
Conclusions
There are many conflicting opinions in regards to the proper use of orthotics. This study would seem to indicate that in some instances, orthotics may indeed be helpful. This could be due to the ability of orthotics to prevent engagement of what PRI calls the “Posterior Exterior Chain” (PEC), which can lead to back tension if chronically engaged.
Unfortunately, this study did not properly control for the placebo effect, so it is impossible to know whether the effects seen were indeed due to the orthotics or were simply a placebo. Regrettably, higher-quality research is needed to discern more.
References