Foot pressure in patients with chronic lumbar radicular pain (sciatica) caused by lumbar disc herniation: a case-control observational study.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine whether there are differences in plantar pressures during gait between patients with lumbar disc herniation -induced sciatica and healthy individuals.

METHODS

This observational case-control study included 41 patients with sciatica due to lumbar disc herniation and 30 healthy controls. Plantar pressures were evaluated using the FootScan platform in 10-foot zones during 3 gait phases, defined as rockers. After walking, body advancement with the supporting foot depends on stance-limb mobility, with the supporting foot acting as a pivot system. In a serial fashion, the heel, ankle, and forefoot serve as rockers that allow the body to advance smoothly. Data were also collected on quality of life, low back pain, lower limb pain, foot pain, foot pain-related disability, foot joint range of motion, and foot posture index. All variables were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Patients with sciatica had a longer contact time and higher mean and peak pressures in all foot zones, except for the first metatarsal and toes. Pressures were higher in the third to fifth metatarsals, especially during push-off. Patients with sciatic arthritis experience not only low back pain, but also lower limb and foot pain, as well as higher foot pain-related disability. There were no significant differences in foot posture or joint ranges, except for decreased subtalar pronation in patients with sciatica.

CONCLUSION

Altered plantar pressure distribution in patients with sciatica may be associated with neuromuscular compensation mechanisms.