Document Type : Original article
Authors
1
Department of Sport Biomechanics, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
2
Department of Sport Biomechanics and Injuries, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Science, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
3
Department of Sports Biomechanics, Kinesiology Research Center, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
Introduction and Aims: Flatfoot, as a three-dimensional deformity, induces significant changes in foot shape across various levels of movement, which consequently leads to alterations in motor function. To manage this condition, different methods such as exercises, orthotic insoles, and specialized shoes have been recommended. The present study aimed to examine the effect of using orthotic insoles, shoes, and taping on the frequency content of ground reaction forces during walking in athletes with flexible flatfoot.
Materials and Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 15 male athletes aged 18 to 25 years with flexible flatfoot (age 21.78 ± 2.07 years; height 1.78 ± 0.07 meters; and weight 80.28 ± 8.23 kilograms) participated. Ground reaction force data were collected using a force plate under various walking conditions: with shoes plus insoles, barefoot, with shoes only, with taping, and with shoes plus taping. The frequency content of the ground reaction forces was then calculated, and to compare the frequency content across different walking conditions, a repeated measures ANOVA test was conducted (p ≤ 0.05).
Results: The results showed significant differences between the various protocols, with the greatest reductions and significant differences observed in the variables of 99.5% power frequency, median frequency, frequency bandwidth, and mean frequency in the shoe and shoe with taping conditions (p < 0.05). The reduction in frequency content was particularly prominent in the medial-lateral plane.
Conclusion: The use of shoes resulted in a greater reduction in the frequency content of ground reaction forces, which could contribute to improved motor control and athletic performance. Therefore, these shoes are recommended as an effective approach for enhancing motor performance in individuals with flexible flatfoot.
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