FACTORS AFFECTING INSOLE USAGE IN PATIENTS WITH PES PLANUS

Introduction: Insoles and exercise programs are the main treatment methods for pes planus patients. Insole using may prevent the formation of pain in daily activities as well as increasing the quality of walking. The aim of this study was to investigate insole usage time and the factors affecting this situation in patient with pes planus. Materials and Methods: 136 patients with pes planus who were prescribed an insole, included in the study. We invited patients to participate in a telephone survey. Patients´ demographics, insole usage time, reasons to quit and the quitting time were questioned. Insole usage rates and the demographic data of patients were compared. Results: Of the 136 patients included in the present study, 80 were women (59%) and 56 were male (31%). 86 of these patients used an insole six months and over, 15 of them used shorter than six months and 35 of them bought the insoles but they didn't use it (63%, 11% and 26% respectively ). The average age of patients who used insoles was 32.80±18.14 and who did not use insoles was 40.77±12.54 (p=0.04). 33.8 percent of women and 14.3 percent of men did not use insoles. This difference is statistically significant (p=0.04). We did not find any significant relationship between height, weight, body mass index values and usage of insoles (p>0:05). Conclusion: The use of insoles in treating patients with pes planus is widely accepted and may be affected by the demographics such as gender and age. Besides wearing comfort, female sex and older age should be considered that may affect the use of insoles.