Marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Mahajan Imaging & Labs has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Institute for Persons with Disabilities (Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment).

The partnership aims to advance mobility and reduce pain for individuals living with flat feet and medial compartment knee osteoarthritis—conditions that significantly limit daily movement for millions across India.

The initiative centres on developing and testing custom-made foot orthoses designed to prevent tibiofibular rotation during weight-bearing, improve knee alignment, and enhance long-term mobility.

 By focusing on personalized orthotic solutions, the project seeks to reduce pain, delay joint deterioration, and help individuals maintain independence without turning immediately to invasive treatments.

A standout feature of the study is the use of Standing Weight Bearing MRI technology at Mahajan Imaging & Labs. Unlike traditional scans done in lying or seated positions, this imaging captures the knee under real-life load—precisely when discomfort occurs.

Participants will undergo multiple scans during their first visit, including images taken with the knee fully extended and at 30-degree flexion, both with and without the orthosis. A follow-up scan after six months will track changes and long-term improvements.

Padma Shri Dr. Harsh Mahajan, Founder & Chairman of Mahajan Imaging & Labs, said the study represents the perfect blend of advanced imaging and practical clinical care.

“Our objective is to turn advanced imaging into practical solutions that truly improve mobility and reduce pain for individuals living with flat feet and knee osteoarthritis.

The Standing MRI allows us to assess how a customized foot orthosis can correct alignment, redistribute pressure, and enhance stability during everyday activities. Through this study, we aim to provide evidence-based guidance that helps clinicians recommend interventions that genuinely improve functional independence and quality of life.”

Flat feet combined with knee osteoarthritis has become a growing health concern, with recent estimates suggesting that one in three to one in four Indian adults over 40 may suffer from symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. 

Misalignment caused by poor foot posture places additional pressure on the inner knee compartment, often accelerating wear and contributing to persistent pain.

Dr. Geetanjali Nanda, Senior Consultant Radiologist at Mahajan Imaging & Labs, emphasized the importance of bridging science with patient-centered outcomes.

“This collaboration is about translating research into practical, measurable results for people living with mobility challenges. 

By combining advanced imaging with personalized orthotic design, we aim to deliver interventions that not only relieve pain but also improve alignment, stability, and long-term functional independence. Our focus is on evidence-backed solutions that make rehabilitation more effective and accessible.”

The study will collect precise data on shinbone rotation, joint space, and ligament behaviour under weight-bearing conditions. A comparative group of individuals with healthy knees will also be scanned to establish benchmarks.

Kabir Mahajan, Chief Operating Officer of Mahajan Imaging & Labs, said the research aligns with the organization’s commitment to advancing patient-focused innovation through CARING — the Centre for Advanced Research in Imaging, Neurosciences & Genomics.

“We are extremely proud to be part of this landmark partnership, which has the potential to transform how patients with mobility issues are diagnosed and managed. Through CARING, we remain committed to translational research that drives meaningful innovation. 

This study using Standing MRI can significantly contribute to improving orthotic care in India, expanding access to non-surgical interventions, and helping people maintain functional mobility essential for daily life and work.”

Mahajan Imaging & Labs continues to collaborate with national and global universities, med-tech innovators, and pharmaceutical partners as a leading imaging CRO and Core Lab. 

This new initiative further strengthens its mission to push the boundaries of imaging science and deliver solutions with real-world clinical impact.