Article

Many foot pathologies are associated with specific foot types. If
foot structure and function are related, measurement of either could assist with
differential diagnosis of pedal pathologies. HYPOTHESIS: Biomechanical measures
of foot structure and function are related in asymptomatic healthy individuals.
METHODS: Sixty-one healthy subjects' left feet were stratified into cavus (n=12),
rectus (n=27) and planus (n=22) foot types. Foot structure was assessed by
malleolar valgus index, arch height index, and arch height flexibility.
Anthropometrics (height and weight), age, and walking speed were measured. Foot
function was assessed by center of pressure excursion index, peak plantar
pressure, maximum force, and gait pattern parameters. Foot structure and
anthropometric variables were entered into stepwise linear regression models to
identify predictors of function. RESULTS: Measures of foot structure and
anthropometrics explained 10-37% of the model variance (adjusted R(2)) for gait
pattern parameters. When walking speed was included, the adjusted R(2) increased
to 45-77% but foot structure was no longer a factor. Foot structure and
anthropometrics predicted 7-47% of the model variance for plantar pressure and
16-64% for maximum force parameters. All multivariate models were significant
(p<0.05), supporting acceptance of the hypothesis. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:
Foot structure and function are related in asymptomatic healthy individuals. The
structural parameters employed are basic measurements that do not require
ionizing radiation and could be used in a clinical setting. Further research is
needed to identify additional predictive parameters (plantar soft tissue
characteristics, skeletal alignment, and neuromuscular control) and to include
individuals with pathology.
CI - Copyright (c) 2012. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Langue : ANGLAIS