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Physiotherapy Research Reviews — 12 Studies Reviewed Monthly

Key Points

Rocker-bottom shoes can effectively redistribute plantar pressure and reduce ankle joint loading during walking and running, although responses are inconsistent.

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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Rocker-bottom shoes have gained significant attention in clinical and performance settings for their purported ability to modify plantar pressure (1), improve gait efficiency (2), and even as a potential tool in treating certain pathologies (3).

These shoes typically feature a rounded sole profile (forefoot-only or rearfoot-to-forefoot) which aims to improve sagittal plane mechanics by facilitating a smoother roll-through/propulsion during walking or running. Though commonly prescribed in clinical populations such as individuals with diabetes or limited joint mobility, the biomechanical effects of rocker-bottom shoes on healthy individuals remain less clear.

This systematic review aimed to synthesize existing evidence on the impact of rocker-bottom shoes on lower limb biomechanics during walking and running in healthy adults. The authors hypothesised that rocker-bottom footwear would significantly influence sagittal plane joint mechanics, plantar pressures, and possibly muscle activity.

Rocker-bottom shoes have gained attention in clinical and performance settings for their ability to improve gait efficiency and as a potential tool in treating pathologies.

Rocker-bottom shoes can alter lower limb biomechanics, particularly by reducing forefoot plantar pressure and modifying sagittal plane ankle mechanics.

METHODS

All the main databases were searched for studies that tested the effects of rocker bottom shoes on adults (over 18 years old) up to March 2024. A total of 26 studies were included in this review following screening, comprising both

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Effects of rocker-bottom shoes on the gait biomechanics of running and walking: a systematic review

Key Points

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

METHODS