Association of footwear with patellofemoral pain syndrome in runners

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common knee problem with a diverse aetiology. One of the clinically well accepted risk factors is malalignment of the lower extremities, including excessive foot pronation, tibial and femoral rotations. A feature of footwear technology entitled 'motion control' aims to reduce excessive movements of the rearfoot during sports activities, and has been developed and used by runners. However, no studies have reported a causal relationship between footwear and PFPS. This review attempts to explore a possible link between the footwear and PFPS so as to shed light on whether proper selection of shoes may be an adjunct therapeutic consideration in the management of patients with PFPS.