Investigation of the Effect of Increased Subtalar Joint Pronation on Static Plantar Pressure Distribution

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to identify variations in mean and maximum plantar pressure parameters across different regions of the foot among individuals with neutral, pronated, and hyperpronated foot postures during static standing.
METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 65 healthy participants categorized into three groups based on their Foot Posture Index: neutral (n=22), pronated (n=22), and hyperpronated (n=21). Navicular mobility and static plantar pressure were assessed using the Navicular Drop Test and the Footwork device, respectively. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with post hoc Bonferroni corrections was used to compare numerical descriptive characteristics between groups.
RESULTS: The average age and height of participants were 23.77±2.77 years and 172±8.86 cm, respectively. Demographic values were similar among groups, except for weight (p=0.020; p<0.05), body mass index (BMI) (p=0.025; p<0.05), and the Navicular Drop Test (p=0.000; p<0.01). No significant differences were found among groups in mean or maximum plantar pressure across different regions of the foot (p>0.05).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Plantar pressure distribution did not vary across different plantar regions based on foot posture. Further research is needed to compare plantar loads based on contact areas.