DefinePK

Abstract

Background: Adult flatfoot and arch deformities result from disruption of the supporting ligaments as well as from muscle weakness or tightness leading to direct impairments in the arch.As the condition progresses, it causes biomechanical alterations that further impair daily functioning. Studies also show correlation between Cartilage damage of Knee, Low back pain with Pes Planus. Many other studies aimed to correct the medial longitudinal arch with arch supporters, Taping and Faradic foot bath.
Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effects of the short-foot exercise (SFE) on Flexible Pes Planus over conventional methods.
Methodology: This study involved 60 subjects who fulfilled the criteria,with 30 particpants each group ,Group A (n=30, 13 men and 17 women) was Conventional Therapy and Group B (n=30, 14 men and 16 women) was Short Foot Exercise progression. The subjects were each given a consent form. The purpose of the study was explained to all the participants and an informed consent was taken from each subject. Navicular Drop Test was used as an Outcome Measure. Group A performed the SFE. SFE programs were performed 20 minutes a day, 5 times a week, for a total of 4 weeks. The Navicular drop test was compared before and after training.
Result: Group A achieved a mean of 9.8 while Group B achieved a mean of 10.15. Group A showed a reduction of 2.74mm while Group B achieved a 2.95mm. P value and statistical significance: the two tailed p value equals 0.6557, by conventional criteria, the difference observed shows only a weak statistical association, suggesting limited evidence of a true effect.
Conclusion: SFE and Conventional exercises are found to be effective in Flexible Pes Planus however, SFE was found to be clinically more effective than conventional exercise, demonstrating greater reductions in NDT values. Despite the weak statistical relationship observed in the results, the observed trends highlight the need for further research to explore the potential clinical benefits more comprehensively.