Journal Of Foot And Ankle Research[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Supporting Podiatric Medicine Education Through Tailored Work Allocation Models.
Coda A, Fellas A, Escalona-Marfil C … +4 more , Ruiz-Tarrazo X, Ortas X, Girones X, Hawke F
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41736252 · Full text
This commentary explores the necessity of tailored work allocation models in podiatric medicine education to meet the unique demands of clinical programmes. It highlights the importance of maintaining optimal student-to-...
This commentary explores the necessity of tailored work allocation models in podiatric medicine education to meet the unique demands of clinical programmes. It highlights the importance of maintaining optimal student-to-staff ratios, the impact on student development, programme reputation and addressing the national workforce shortage in podiatry.
An Exploratory Statistical Shape Modeling Analysis of Three-Dimensional Foot Alignment in Female Patients With Progressive Collapsing Foot Deformity.
Miyamoto T, Lisonbee RJ, Knutson K … +4 more , Kurokawa H, Taniguchi A, Tanaka Y, Lenz AL
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41736250 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD) is a complex condition characterized by multiple combined deformities, with a higher reported prevalence in women. Most studies of PCFD morphology have focused o...
INTRODUCTION: Progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD) is a complex condition characterized by multiple combined deformities, with a higher reported prevalence in women. Most studies of PCFD morphology have focused on single joints and evaluated both sexes together, leaving the interrelationship of multiple joints in females specifically unassessed. In this study, we developed a multi-domain statistical shape model (SSM) from reconstructions of simulated weight-bearing computed tomography (SW-CT) image data to investigate variations in 3D foot alignment in women by comparing the morphology of patients with PCFD to that of their asymptomatic control counterparts. METHODS: We developed an SSM to analyze the 3D alignment in the foot, including the distal tibia, distal fibula, talus, calcaneus, navicular, cuboid, and each of the cuneiforms and metatarsal bones. Model results were compared between 23 female patients with PCFD and 23 female asymptomatic individuals. RESULTS: Although the Chopart, subtalar, and Lisfranc joints were dorsiflexed and abducted, the Chopart and subtalar joints were inverted whereas the Lisfranc joint was everted, indicating that deformity of the Lisfranc joint occurred in the opposite direction to that of the subtalar and Chopart joints. CONCLUSIONS: The application of a multi-domain SSM from SW-CT to evaluate alignment deformities in patients with PCFD represents a new and novel approach to understanding the pathophysiology of this condition. In PCFD, the subtalar and Chopart joints showed coordinated changes, whereas the Lisfranc joint demonstrated variation in the opposite direction. Also, the talonavicular joint spreads out medially in a fan-like direction in PCFD.
Working Right Ways in Foot Health With and for First Nations Peoples: Research Method Guided and Governed by First Nations Ways of Knowing, Being, and Doing in Cross-Sectional Qualitative Study Design.
Gerrard J, Godwin Badimaya Yamatji S, Whiteley Wiradjuri K … +3 more , Charles Kaurna J, Sadler S, Chuter V
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41730756 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Underpinning ongoing colonisation of the lands now known as Australia, scientific racism in colonial research delivered flawed results by building Indigenous inferiority into methodology to produce dehumanisi...
BACKGROUND: Underpinning ongoing colonisation of the lands now known as Australia, scientific racism in colonial research delivered flawed results by building Indigenous inferiority into methodology to produce dehumanising conclusions of First Nations Peoples. Scientific racism facilitated exclusion of First Nations Peoples from systems design and development; foregrounding ways exclusive and enforced colonial health systems cause First Nations health and wellbeing inequality. Inequities in foot health contribute to this inequality. This work describes and documents a process of First Nations-led authentic co-design for foot health research. This study represents ways and means to develop culturally responsive foot health research as judged by First Nations Peoples which will translate into improved and more responsive ways of delivering foot care. METHODS: Non-Indigenous and First Nations Peoples sought authentic First Nations-led co-design process in foot health research methods, a governing First Nations Advisory Group, and broader First Nations governance and ethics approvals. Indigenous methodology, data sovereignty, and redistribution of power were imperative in ways of working. First Nations-led co-design developed culturally responsive semi-structured interviews to collect data. Talking with 10 registered health practitioners who work closely with lower limb and foot health represented the right mix of participants and enough data to convey a more complicated mosaic of multi-faceted stories. First Nations expertise informed analytic induction and the use of inductive reasoning and constant comparison to identify common and overarching themes, and to perform thematic analysis. RESULTS: Authentic First Nations-led ways of working in cross-sectional qualitative study design are documented. Results of data analysis following these ways of working will be published subsequently. CONCLUSION: This work provides insights into working right ways in research which will underpin good foot health services with and for First Nations Peoples. The paper highlights ways of working that empowers First Nations Peoples in authentic co-design. First Nations-led foot health research changes ways of working to counter inequities in foot health caused and maintained by ongoing colonisation and systemic racism. This study provides qualified voiced lived experience which foot health researchers must listen to and receive learning and direction from.
Prevalence of Preoperative Anxiety and Associated Factors in Hallux Valgus Surgery.
Ramírez-Navarro PC, Rodríguez-Sanz D, Velázquez-Saornil J … +5 more , Iribarnegaray AS, Basas-García B, Suárez-Ortiz M, Nieto-Farrán S, Nieto-Sanmartín E
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41719086 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Preoperative anxiety is that which is motivated by the emotional and physical stressors inherent in a surgical intervention. The aim of this study was to assess preoperative anxiety as well as the associate...
INTRODUCTION: Preoperative anxiety is that which is motivated by the emotional and physical stressors inherent in a surgical intervention. The aim of this study was to assess preoperative anxiety as well as the associated sociodemographic and surgical factors in the context of a common foot surgery procedure, such as surgery for the correction of hallux valgus. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a total of 80 patients using the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS) during the preoperative consultation to determine the level of anxiety and information among patients undergoing osteoarticular surgery for the correction of hallux valgus. Additionally, a questionnaire was used to gather information on other variables such as age, gender, type of surgery, and surgical history. RESULTS: 36.3% of the participants experienced preoperative anxiety. Patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery had lower levels of preoperative anxiety compared to those undergoing conventional surgery (p = 0.006). 81.3% of the patients requested additional information about the surgical procedure, which was correlated with the level of anxiety with patients who requested additional information being 5.57 times more likely to experience preoperative anxiety (p = 0.034). There were no significant differences in anxiety levels between men and women. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of preoperative anxiety and the demand for information were high among the participants in this study. The patient's demand for information is a predictive factor of preoperative anxiety. Other factors, such as knowing the surgeon or having undergone previous surgery, acted as protective factors against preoperative anxiety.
Efficacy and Safety of Dextrose Prolotherapy Versus Corticosteroid Injections in Plantar Fasciitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Qafesha RM, Ishreiteh HA, Nassourah AL … +2 more , Tawil OI, Mashaly D
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41703400 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a common cause of heel pain that affects the health-related quality of life of many individuals and has various treatment options. Two effective interventions are corticosteroid (CS)...
BACKGROUND: Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a common cause of heel pain that affects the health-related quality of life of many individuals and has various treatment options. Two effective interventions are corticosteroid (CS) injections and dextrose prolotherapy (DP). This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of DP and CS in patients with PF systematically. METHODS: Relevant studies, including those comparing DP and CS for treating PF, were identified by searching electronic databases until August 2025. The visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, foot function index (FFI), and plantar fascia thickness (PFT) were compared between the groups in the short term (0.5-1 month) and mid-term (3 months). Statistical analyses were performed via RevMan 4.5.1, and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Five RCTs and two cohort studies, with a total of 567 patients, were included in the meta-analysis. The analysis revealed that at the short-term follow-up (1 month), corticosteroid injections were more effective at reducing the VAS pain scores than dextrose prolotherapy for general VAS score (MD = 1.85, 95% CI [0.05, 3.64], p = 0.04), the VAS score at the first step in the morning (MD = 1.26, 95% CI [0.49, 2.02], p = 0.001), and the VAS score for pain while walking (MD = 1.85, 95% CI [0.68, 3.02], p = 0.002). Similarly, at the short-term follow-up (1 month), the analysis revealed a significantly greater reduction in the FFI score (MD = 18.81, 95% CI [0.06, 37.55]) and PFT (MD = 0.26 mm, 95% CI [0.07, 0.45]) in the CS group than in the DP group. At 3 months, the analysis revealed a significant decrease in the FFI score (p = 0.003) in the DP group compared with the CS group, whereas no significant difference was observed in the VAS scores or PFT. CONCLUSION: In patients with plantar fasciitis, CS injections had greater efficacy than DP did in the short term; however, their efficacy became similar in the mid-term follow-up, with DP outperforming CS in terms of foot function. Further trials with standardized protocols and long-term follow-ups are needed to address potential biases.
An Overview of Australian Podiatry Research: A Bibliometric Review.
Tehan P, Azhar AN, Banwell H … +14 more , Bergin S, Charles J, Hawke F, Ho M, Hurn S, Kaminski M, Lim P, Martin S, Menz HB, Osborne J, Peterson B, Samaras D, Williams C, Carroll MR
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41689815 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Podiatrists are the primary health professionals associated with assessment, diagnosis and management of lower limb problems. Research is critical in informing evidence-based practice. As part of a national r...
BACKGROUND: Podiatrists are the primary health professionals associated with assessment, diagnosis and management of lower limb problems. Research is critical in informing evidence-based practice. As part of a national research priorities project, this bibliometric review aimed to map all Australian podiatry-relevant research from 1970 to 2024 and explore volume over time, authors, institutions, level of evidence, funding sources and categories of research. METHODS: Podiatry-relevant research was categorised into 10 streams: dermatology, diabetes-related foot disease, gerontology, musculoskeletal and sports, paediatrics, rheumatology, surgery, workforce and education, First Nations foot health and neurological and vascular disease. A systematic search of the literature was conducted in each stream up until December 2024. Meta-data from Scopus were analysed in Biblioshiny, where publications volume, authors, institutions, journals and collaborations were described. Each publication was also categorised for level of evidence using the National Health and Medical Research Council criteria, research type using the United Kingdom Clinical Research Collaboration Health Research Classification System and funding source using Higher Education Research Data Collection specifications. RESULTS: A total of 1641 publications were included across all research streams. Steady increases in publication volume occurred over the past 20 years, with diabetes-related foot disease yielding the highest volume (n = 335), followed by musculoskeletal (n = 308) and paediatrics (n = 280). Musculoskeletal and sports research demonstrated the highest proportion of level I evidence (22%), whereas most streams were dominated by level IV evidence. The majority of research across all streams received no funding support, ranging from 32% unfunded in First Nations foot health research to 87% in surgical research. Rheumatology achieved the highest proportion of competitive funding (47% Category 1). The most frequent research categories were aetiology, detection and screening and evaluation of treatments. The Journal of Foot and Ankle Research was the most frequent publication source, with 140 (8%) of total publications. CONCLUSION: Australian podiatry-relevant research has grown substantially, particularly over the past 2 decades. However, significant disparities exist in volume, evidence quality and funding across different streams, with most research conducted without external funding support, highlighting the need for strategic investment to enhance evidence generation in key areas of podiatry practice.
Clinical and Structural Associations of Disability and Gait Performance in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis in Remission and Metatarsal Pain.
Bueno Fermoso R, Morales Lozano R, Martínez Rincón C … +3 more , García Fernández P, López González JM, González Fernández ML
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41681131 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may continue to experience foot-related disability despite clinical remission. Foot involvement is associated with self-reported disability and objective gait alteratio...
BACKGROUND: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may continue to experience foot-related disability despite clinical remission. Foot involvement is associated with self-reported disability and objective gait alterations. Foot involvement is heterogeneous; studying patients with localised forefoot pain may help clarify which structural and inflammatory factors are associated with functional impairment. OBJECTIVES: To identify clinical, structural and imaging factors associated with disability and gait performance in patients with RA in clinical remission with metatarsal-region forefoot pain. METHODS: Cross-sectional study of 81 patients with RA in remission with metatarsal-region forefoot pain. Outcomes were Foot Function Index disability and activity limitation (FFI-D and FFI-AL), gait velocity (GV) and double-support time (DS). Associations were examined using Spearman correlations, age- and BMI-adjusted individual linear regression, parsimonious multivariable linear regression and exploratory cluster analysis. RESULTS: Mean (SD) FFI-D and FFI-AL were 29.8 (29.4) and 29.1 (27.7); gait velocity (GV) was 0.90 (0.34) m/s and double-support time (DS) was 22.9 (8.2)% of the gait cycle. In bivariate and age/BMI-adjusted analyses, graded structural measures showed more consistent associations with disability and gait outcomes than dichotomous/count variables. In parsimonious models, disability (FFI-D/FFI-AL) was independently associated with pain intensity (VAS) and first metatarsophalangeal joint stiffness/limited dorsiflexion (1stMTP), whereas gait performance was mainly associated with age/BMI, greater graded forefoot structural severity and 1stMTP. Cluster analysis identified a higher grey-scale synovitis (GS)/lower structural-burden group and a lower GS/higher structural-burden group, with worse function and slower gait in the latter. CONCLUSIONS: In RA remission with metatarsal-region forefoot pain, perceived disability is mainly associated with pain and forefoot stiffness, whereas gait performance is more closely related to age/BMI and graded forefoot structural severity. These findings support severity-based region-specific structural assessment alongside pain evaluation in clinical follow-up, to avoid underestimating the independent contribution of structural damage to function and gait.
Social Determinants of Diabetes-Related Foot Ulcer Healing and Amputation in Australia: A Systematic Review.
Chan TL, Sadler S, Searle A … +3 more , Hennessy K, Lanting S, Chuter V
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41673246 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: In Australia, approximately 50,000 people suffer from diabetes-related foot ulcers (DFU) with another 300,000 people at risk each year. Evidence suggests that social determinants of health may impact DFU ou...
INTRODUCTION: In Australia, approximately 50,000 people suffer from diabetes-related foot ulcers (DFU) with another 300,000 people at risk each year. Evidence suggests that social determinants of health may impact DFU outcomes; however, systematic evaluation of studies is lacking. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate studies investigating the impact of social determinants of health on DFU outcomes. METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and Scopus were searched from inception to December 2024. Original published studies conducted in Australia investigating the impact of social determinants of health on DFU outcomes, such as wound healing, hospital admission and amputation, were potentially eligible for inclusion. Social determinants of health had to meet the World Health Organisation definition. Authors independently screened studies for inclusion, extracted data and assessed risk of bias using the Quality in Prognostic Studies tool. RESULTS: Twelve studies which investigated socioeconomic status (n = 5), geographical remoteness (n = 5) and access to healthcare services (n = 7) and their impact on DFU outcomes were included. Socioeconomic disadvantage and geographic remoteness were associated with worse DFU outcomes including longer healing times and increased rates of amputation. Access to health services, which aligned with guideline recommendations, was associated with improved DFU healing outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Social determinants of health impact DFU outcomes and are important for clinicians, policy makers and researchers to consider in the design and delivery of health care services. Further research is needed to explore the impact of social determinants of health on a broader range of DFU outcomes and across diverse geographical settings.
Structure and Function of the Achilles Tendon and Plantarflexors 1 Year Following Achilles Tendon Rupture in the United Kingdom: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Briggs-Price S, Mangwani J, Kilcran A … +3 more , Prasad A, Salimian R, O'Neill S
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41673242 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is the most common tendon rupture affecting the lower limb. This study investigates Achilles tendon structure, strength and function 1 year or more after ATR. METHODS: This cross...
BACKGROUND: Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is the most common tendon rupture affecting the lower limb. This study investigates Achilles tendon structure, strength and function 1 year or more after ATR. METHODS: This cross-sectional study recruited individuals ≥ 12 months post ATR. Structure was assessed using ultrasound tissue characterisation (UTC) including cross-sectional area (CSA), aligned fibrillar structure (AFS), disorganised fibrillar structure (DFS) and echo type percentage. Strength was measured using maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) plantarflexor testing and the calf raise test. Patient-reported outcomes included the Achilles tendon rupture score (ATRS), EQ-5D-5L and general practice physical activity questionnaire (GPPAQ). Achilles tendon resting angle (ATRA) was used as an indirect measure of tendon elongation. The relationship between outcomes and time since ATR was analysed using linear regression adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity and body mass index (BMI). Between limb comparisons were made using paired t-tests. FINDINGS: Sixty participants (mean age 55.2 years and 78.5% male) were assessed at a mean of 6.8 years post ATR. The affected tendon showed a 62% larger cross-sectional area, with 28.7 mm (16%) DFS compared to 7.3 mm (7%) on the nonaffected side (p < 0.001). Linear regression showed decreasing AFS with time postinjury (p = 0.04); no significant associations were found for CSA or DFS. Significant deficits were observed in plantarflexor strength and function, with MVIC and calf raise work 18% and 40% lower in the affected limb (p < 0.001). ATRA indicated tendon elongation in the affected limb of 6.7° (p < 0.001). Median ATRS was 83, EQ-5D index was 0.95 and VAS was 85; 93% were physically active based on the GPPAQ. CONCLUSION: Significant structural and functional deficits persist years after ATR, including increased tendon size, fibre disorganisation, reduced strength and tendon elongation. ATRS scores were consistent with previous nonsurgical immobilisation protocol outcomes in the United Kingdom. Longitudinal studies are needed to understand the trajectory of recovery following ATR.
Acceptability of Minimalist Shoes Compared With Balance-Enhancing Shoes in Older Women: Protocol for a Randomised Crossover Trial.
Nor Azhar A, Bergin SM, Munteanu SE … +1 more , Menz HB
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41671074 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Falls are a major concern for older women and can result in significant injury. Footwear has been shown to improve or impair balance performance in older women, contingent upon footwear design features. Bal...
INTRODUCTION: Falls are a major concern for older women and can result in significant injury. Footwear has been shown to improve or impair balance performance in older women, contingent upon footwear design features. Balance-enhancing shoes may reduce the risk of falling but their acceptability is unknown. Acceptability is important because it influences the level of adherence to the intervention. The aim of this trial protocol is to describe the methodology of a randomised crossover trial to compare the acceptability of balance-enhancing outdoor shoes versus minimalist outdoor shoes in older women and compare the effects of these two interventions on the perceived risk of falling and balance performance. METHODS: The trial will use a randomised two-period crossover trial methodology. We will recruit 44 community-dwelling women aged 65 years or older who will be randomised to receive a pair of minimalist shoes (Basic Lace Up Canvas Shoes, Kmart Australia Ltd, Mulgrave, Australia) or a pair of balance-enhancing shoes (Balla Balance Leather Lace Up Boots, Ziera Australia, Abbotsford, Australia), which encompass key features known to be beneficial for balance such as adequate fixation, a firm heel counter, high heel collar, firm midsole and textured insole. The order of the interventions will be randomised. Cross-over to the second shoe condition will occur at 6 weeks. Outcome measures will be collected at baseline, six and 12 weeks; the primary endpoint for assessing footwear acceptability for each shoe condition will be 6 weeks. The primary outcome measure will be footwear acceptability, evaluated using a modified version of the Monitor Orthopaedic Shoes Questionnaire. Secondary outcome measures include perceived risk of falling (the Falls Efficacy Scale International) and balance performance (upper body stability when walking, using the GyKo wearable sensor). DISCUSSION: This trial will evaluate the acceptability, perceived risk of falling and balance performance of minimalist shoes versus balance-enhancing shoes. The findings will provide much-needed evidence as to the acceptability of these two shoe types in older women. Such information may support footwear design to increase balance performance and reduce risk of falling. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12624001496505).
Comparative Outcomes of Percutaneous Needle Tenotomy Performed by a Podiatrist Versus an Orthopaedic Surgeon in the Management of Toe Ulcers.
Heald A, Veluchamy Rathakrishnan SP, Blong J … +8 more , Sharpe A, Gorman A, Jude E, Stedman M, Robinson A, Reeves ND, Gee E, Allen M
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41655273 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Foot ulceration is a debilitating and often disabling complication of diabetes mellitus, with negative prognostic associations in terms of morbidity and mortality. Percutaneous needle tenotomy (PNT) is increa...
BACKGROUND: Foot ulceration is a debilitating and often disabling complication of diabetes mellitus, with negative prognostic associations in terms of morbidity and mortality. Percutaneous needle tenotomy (PNT) is increasingly recognized as a safe, minimally invasive procedure for treating tendon-related deformities, including mechanical forefoot ulceration. This study evaluated clinical outcomes of needle flexor tenotomies performed by a podiatrist versus an orthopaedic surgeon. METHODS: This service evaluation reviewed consecutive adult patients with foot ulceration who received needle tenotomy by a senior podiatrist, excluding those who underwent alternative procedures/amputation. Orthopaedic surgeon conducted tenotomy was the comparison group. RESULTS: Podiatrist: 30 patients underwent needle tenotomy (total-31 feet) (23 patients had diabetes). Orthopaedic surgeon: 10 patients underwent needle tenotomy (total-12 feet). Median age was 71.5 years (range: 39.0-92.0), with 8 males/2 females. (8 patients had diabetes). The podiatrist-led group was older and had higher HbA1c, greater proportion of smokers, larger ulcer size and longer ulcer duration pre-intervention (median 54 vs. 20 weeks and p = 0.002) than the orthopaedic surgeon-led group. Despite these differences in disease severity, time to ulcer resolution (median 4.7 vs. 2 weeks, p = 0.119) and the rate of complete healing (86.7% vs. 100% and p = 0.556) did not differ significantly between groups. CONCLUSION: The lowest cost of the minor surgical foot procedure as a day case = £554 (€662) with this cost at least halved by conducting the procedure in a podiatry clinic. In conclusion, podiatrist-led percutaneous needle tenotomy is a safe and effective intervention for foot ulcers, achieving healing outcomes comparable to an orthopaedic surgeon. We hope that the procedure can be adopted more widely.
Australian Podiatry Research in Rheumatology: A Bibliometric Analysis.
Bergin SM, Lim PQX, Menz HB … +2 more , Tehan PE, Carroll MR
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41630187 · Full text
BACKGROUND: To conduct a bibliographic analysis of English language foot and ankle research pertaining to rheumatology published by Australian authors. METHODS: The Scopus database search was conducted to identify all Au...
BACKGROUND: To conduct a bibliographic analysis of English language foot and ankle research pertaining to rheumatology published by Australian authors. METHODS: The Scopus database search was conducted to identify all Australian rheumatology articles published by podiatric authors in English from 1970 to 2024. Bibliometric analysis was performed using an open-source tool based on the R language. Citations, journals, authors, institutions and countries were described. Publications were manually categorised according to research type, level of evidence and funding source. RESULTS: The search strategy yielded 89 eligible articles, which received a total of 2438 citations and were published by 200 authors. The most frequent journals were Arthritis Care & Research and Osteoarthritis and Cartilage each with 9 articles or 10% of total publications. The most published institution was La Trobe University (affiliation of 151 authors). Most of the Australian rheumatology articles focused on the evaluation of treatments and therapeutic interventions (n = 35; 39%) and 11 articles (12%) provided Level I evidence. Forty-two publications (47%) were supported by Category 1 funding, however, 29 (33%) reported no research funding. CONCLUSION: Rheumatology represents just 5% of Australian podiatry research. Despite this, it attracts high citation rates relative to number of publications and is well supported by Category 1 funding in comparison to other research fields. Funding sources outside of competitive Category 1 grants appear to be limited however, and research scope is narrow with a high number of evaluative studies conducted. Rheumatology research would benefit from an increase in available funding sources and a broader research scope that informs disease prevention and evidence-based clinical care.
Exploring Experiences and Perspectives of Prescribed Foot Orthoses in People With Diabetes.
Sedighi N, Hendry G, Pallari J … +1 more , Barn R
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41630159 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Adherence to prescribed offloading among people with diabetes is often insufficient. Although factors influencing adherence with prescribed footwear have been well studied, uncertainties remain. Perceptions a...
BACKGROUND: Adherence to prescribed offloading among people with diabetes is often insufficient. Although factors influencing adherence with prescribed footwear have been well studied, uncertainties remain. Perceptions and views of people with diabetes on their prescribed foot orthoses, including areas for improvement, may offer important insights. METHODS: Using a qualitative study design, a combination of online focus groups and individual interviews were employed to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences and perceptions of people at risk of diabetes-related foot ulcers regarding experiences of prescribed foot orthoses. All interviews and focus groups were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcribed data were coded, and thematic analysis was undertaken following a six-step thematic analysis framework. FINDINGS: Eight people with diabetes at risk of developing foot ulcers who had been prescribed foot orthoses were included. Three major themes emerged from thematic analysis: (i) adherence and barriers to effective use of foot orthoses, which captured the role of health professionals as well as the interconnected relationship between footwear and foot orthoses, (ii) perceived benefits of foot orthoses and desired improvements, and (iii) anxiety and psychological impact, which highlighted how anxiety and fear can influence footcare behaviours, both as motivators and barriers. CONCLUSION: This study provides valuable insights into user experiences of prescribed foot orthoses and factors influencing foot orthoses-related behavioural choices; these findings may help researchers and healthcare professionals in designing and delivering foot orthoses that better meet the needs of users to enhance engagement with preventative strategies. Important considerations include the perception of balance and stability, the psychological impact of diabetes-related foot disease and the role of the healthcare professional in providing support both during and after foot orthoses provision.
Australian Podiatry Conference 2025.
Tehan P, Buldt A, James A
J Foot Ankle Res · 2025 Nov · PMID 41623017 · Full text
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
2025 Australian Podiatry Conference, 26-28 June 2025, Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Australia.
J Foot Ankle Res · 2025 Nov · PMID 41623010 · Full text
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Prevalence, Severity and Impact of Foot Pain in 419 Pregnant Participants: The Queensland Family Cohort Study.
Fontes JR, Franettovich Smith MM, Leung F … +3 more , Clifton VL, Hides J, Mendis MD
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41622421 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Many hormonal, anatomical and biomechanical changes occur during pregnancy that may contribute to lower limb musculoskeletal dysfunction, including foot pain. Previous international studies have reported vari...
BACKGROUND: Many hormonal, anatomical and biomechanical changes occur during pregnancy that may contribute to lower limb musculoskeletal dysfunction, including foot pain. Previous international studies have reported variable rates of foot pain in this population, but there is a lack of prospective longitudinal investigations. Improving the current understanding of foot pain is important to inform the development of management interventions during and after pregnancy. This study aimed to investigate the self-reported prevalence, severity, frequency and impact of foot pain on work, activities and quality of life during pregnancy. METHODS: Pregnant participants were recruited through the Queensland Family Cohort study conducted at a tertiary maternity hospital. Questionnaires were administered at enrolment (12-24 weeks' gestation) to collect demographics and at 24 weeks' gestation, 36 weeks' gestation and at the end of pregnancy (6 weeks postpartum) to measure the presence, severity and frequency of foot pain and symptoms and the impact of foot pain on work, activities and quality of life. RESULTS: Four hundred and nineteen pregnant participants with a mean age of 32.2 (range 16-45) years and body mass index of 27 (range 17-52) were included. A high prevalence of foot pain was reported during pregnancy (44% up to 24 weeks; 56% up to 36 weeks, 54% up to the end of pregnancy). The severity of foot pain was mild to moderate and occasional in frequency. Foot pain had a mild to moderate impact on work, activities and quality of life during pregnancy. Participants with foot pain reported a lower perceived level of health during and at the end of pregnancy. CONCLUSION: Foot pain is a highly prevalent musculoskeletal problem that impacts work and quality of life during pregnancy. Pre-natal and post-natal care may provide an opportunity to assess and provide advice, treatment or appropriate referral for the management of foot pain.
Foot Progression Angle Modulates Three-Dimensional Lower-Limb Biomechanics in Flexible Flatfoot: Kinematic-Kinetic Patterns and Clinical Implications.
Shen L, Sun D, Fang Y … +9 more , Lu Z, Li X, Xu Y, Song Y, Zhu C, Cen X, Fekete G, Jemni M, Gu Y
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41619205 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Foot progression angle affects gait and lowerlimb alignment. Altered angles may increase knee and ankle loading and produce tissue loading patterns previously linked to musculoskeletal injury. This study in...
INTRODUCTION: Foot progression angle affects gait and lowerlimb alignment. Altered angles may increase knee and ankle loading and produce tissue loading patterns previously linked to musculoskeletal injury. This study investigates how different foot progression angles modify knee and ankle biomechanics in young adults with flexible flatfoot. METHODS: 28 participants (aged 18-35 years) with flexible flatfoot completed gait trials under three foot progression angle conditions. Kinematic and kinetic variables were analyzed using one-dimensional statistical parametric mapping. A 1D convolutional neural network was applied to classify progression angle patterns based on flexible flatfoot severity and gait biomechanics. RESULTS: Decreasing foot progression angle reduced the ankle eversion/inversion range and knee abduction and external rotation (p < 0.05). Increasing foot progression angle lowered early stance ankle plantarflexion and increased knee abduction/external rotation (p < 0.05). Kinetically, a smaller foot progression angle reduced peak ankle plantarflexion moment and knee extension moment but increased the first peak of the knee adduction moment and rotational moment fluctuations (p < 0.05). A larger foot progression angle reduced rotational fluctuations and terminal stance knee extension moment (p < 0.05). The convolutional neural network model was most accurate for moderate flexible flatfoot cases, and ankle coronal and knee transverse biomechanics showed the strongest discriminative power. CONCLUSION: Modifying the foot progression angle can meaningfully alter knee and ankle loading in young adults with flexible flatfoot. Neutral or mild toe-in angles may help mitigate excessive eversion and rotational stress, suggesting a simple noninvasive adjustment that clinicians can incorporate during gait retraining or orthotic prescription. Because biomechanical responses vary across individuals, FPA modification may be the most effective when tailored to patient-specific gait characteristics. In addition, deep-learning-based gait classification shows promise for supporting personalized monitoring and guiding clinical decision-making during rehabilitation.
Exploring Australian High-Risk Foot Podiatrists' Understanding of Recurrent and Contralateral Charcot Neuroarthropathy in Individuals With Diabetes Mellitus: A Qualitative Study.
Cheong KY, Landorf KB, Munteanu SE … +1 more , Bergin SM
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41612757 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) can result in severe destruction of the foot and the ankle. Additional episodes of acute CN in the same or contralateral foot cause additional burden. This study aimed to explo...
INTRODUCTION: Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) can result in severe destruction of the foot and the ankle. Additional episodes of acute CN in the same or contralateral foot cause additional burden. This study aimed to explore Australian high-risk foot podiatrists' understanding of recurrent and contralateral CN in individuals with diabetes. METHODS: Semi-structured online interviews were conducted. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Thematic content analysis was used. RESULTS: Five themes were identified in relation to recurrent and contralateral CN-two were related to potential risk factors: patients and systems and addressing clinical complexity, two were related to preventive interventions: protection as prevention and knowledge and surveillance and one was related to barriers to implementing preventive interventions: financial and personal endurance. The most reported risk factors were reduced adherence to management and lack of knowledge. Many preventive interventions were reported, but there was a lack of consensus on standardised care, and due to significant barriers, these interventions were not frequently used. CONCLUSION: This study found that participants perceived a range of potential risk factors for recurrent and contralateral CN. They also reported a variety of preventive interventions; however, due to associated barriers, these were not frequently applied. Further rigorous research is needed to develop evidence-based guidelines.
Postoperative Dressing Regimens in Nail Surgeries: A Scoping Review.
Wassef DYFI, Al-Modhefer Z, Hennessy K
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41566150 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Toenail surgeries are one of the most common surgeries performed on the lower limb with many common postoperative complications, including prolonged healing time, infection and prolonged exudation. There is a...
BACKGROUND: Toenail surgeries are one of the most common surgeries performed on the lower limb with many common postoperative complications, including prolonged healing time, infection and prolonged exudation. There is a wide variety of dressings designed to reduce the rate of postoperative complications and improve healing. The efficacy of dressings for improving postoperative healing in toenail surgeries is still unknown. There is no consensus on the correct dressing regimen and a low number of studies into the subject. This review aimed to assess the current literature to determine the most efficacious postoperative dressing regimens following toenail surgeries. METHODS: Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane library and SCOPUS from database creation to June 2025. Quantitative studies which applied any postoperative dressing regimen to any patient undergoing any form of toenail surgery and attributed the postoperative outcome to the dressing were deemed eligible for inclusion. Two independent reviewers performed the study selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment. Risk of bias was assessed using the JBI critical appraisal tools. RESULTS: Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The included studies had 27 dressing regimens across 15 outcome measures. Outcome measures investigated were as follows: pain, healing rate, time of exudate, inflammation, infection rate, bleeding, size of exudate, type of exudate, soothing effect, nail area preservation, time until normal shoe wear, satisfaction rate, time until full function, ease of removal by dressing type and ease of dressing removal by surgery type. Overall, no outcome measure had high quality evidence supporting use, suggesting no dressing was superior to others for any of the outcome measures. CONCLUSIONS: Collation of similar outcome measures was not possible due to the variability in outcome measures, and a lack of high-quality studies investigating the efficacy of specific dressing regimens for the reduction of postoperative complications or improving postoperative healing meant specific conclusions could not be formed. However, a consensus in the included articles was that primary dressings were more likely to impact postoperative outcomes when compared to secondary dressings. Further high-quality research investigating the efficacy of postoperative dressing regimens in nail surgery are needed.
Morphological Changes and MRI Characteristics of the Achilles Tendon in Amateur Marathon Runners With Different Running Experience.
Yao W, Chen Y, Dai S … +6 more , Zhou J, Mao X, Zhang Y, Ding J, Liu J, Huang J
J Foot Ankle Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41520330 · Full text
BACKGROUND: With the escalating popularity of marathon running, Achilles tendon injuries, particularly gradual-onset Achilles tendon injury, have become common, often causing substantial training disruptions. However, th...
BACKGROUND: With the escalating popularity of marathon running, Achilles tendon injuries, particularly gradual-onset Achilles tendon injury, have become common, often causing substantial training disruptions. However, the influence of running experience on the Achilles tendon structure in amateur runners remains largely unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between running experience and asymptomatic Achilles tendon pathology as well as its structural changes. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional observational study. Forty-eight amateur marathon runners were categorized into four groups based on running experience (1, 3, 5, and > 5 years), with 12 healthy nonrunners as controls. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were strictly applied. All participants underwent MRI scanning using a 3.0 T GE scanner. Two radiologists evaluated MRI scans for pathology and measured tendon length, thickness, volume, and cross-sectional area (CSA). Statistical analyses, including Shapiro-Wilk, ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis H, and chi-squared tests, were conducted using SPSS 23.0. RESULTS: Baseline characteristics showed no significant group differences. Qualitative analysis revealed that the prevalence of midportion tendinopathy, insertional tendinopathy, and retrocalcaneal bursitis increased significantly with longer running experience. Quantitative measurements indicated that tendon thickness, volume, and CSA were significantly greater in long-running groups compared to short-running and control groups, whereas tendon length remained unchanged. Interobserver reliability was excellent. CONCLUSION: In amateur marathon runners, running experience is associated with increased asymptomatic Achilles tendon pathology and morphological remodeling. Prolonged running may induce both adaptive and degenerative changes, highlighting the importance of MRI-based monitoring for early intervention in high-risk populations.
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