Year: 2024 | Month: April-June | Volume: 9 | Issue: 2 | Pages: 432-438
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijshr.20240256
Exploring the Relationship Between Foot Arch and Lower Extremity Gait Kinematics in Healthy Adults: A Comprehensive Analysis
Dr. Poonam Parulekar1, Dr. Julia Jossy2, Dr. Mayuri Gad3, Fr. John Rose S. J.4, Arjun Singh Shishodia5
1Department of Physiotherapy, 2Department of Physiotherapy,
SVKM’S NMIMS University, 3Biomechanicst, St. Xavier’s Gait Lab, Mumbai, 4Director, Xavier Institute of Engineering, IT Engineer, Xavier Institute of Engineering, Mumbai
Corresponding Author: Dr. Mayuri Gad
ABSTRACT
Background: Flat Feet condition also known as pes planus, manifests as a prevalent postural anomaly characterized by the medial rotation and plantar flexion of the talus, along with the eversion of the calcaneus, collapse of the medial arch, and abduction of the forefoot.
Aim and Objectives: Correlation of foot arch with lower extremity gait kinematics in healthy adults.
Methods: 17 healthy adult females (82 feet, n = 82) with flexible flat feet who were between the ages of 18 and 25 were included in the study. Baseline recording of the outcome measures was done using the Foot Posture Index (FPI-6) and Navicular Drop Test which assessed individuals with flat arch and normal arch foot followed by 3D gait Analysis.
Results: A statistically significant positive connection has been observed between FPI and the maximum ankle dorsiflexion (p = 0.02) at mid-stance, terminal stance (p = 0.033), starting swing (p = 0.027), and maximum dorsiflexion in the mid-swing (p = 0.002) phase. FPI and FPA. have a negative connection, with a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.001.
Conclusion: This study strengthens the current understanding of how flat feet can influence gait patterns. The observed differences in gait mechanics among individuals with flat feet highlight the potential benefits of interventions aimed at improving foot arch support and function.
Keywords: Foot arch types, Lower extremity biomechanics, Gait analysis, Healthy gait patterns, Gait kinematics, Foot posture Index