Morphometric analysis of foot arches and determining their effect on speed and dynamic stability among 18- to 24-year-old women
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the incidence of flat feet among young individuals and understand the advantages of subjects with high-arched feet in athletic performance and balance compared to subjects with low and neutral-arched feet. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 160 young females aged 18–25. Footprints of the subjects were taken, and the arch index was calculated using Staheli’s arch index and the Chippaux–Smirak index. Based on the value of the arch index, the subjects were divided into group A (low-arch), group B (normal-arch), and group C (high-arch). 40-yard dash test, vertical jump test, and star excursion balance test were conducted to assess the speed and balance of individuals. Results: The prevalence of low-arched feet, normal-arched feet, and high-arched feet was found to be 11%, 78%, and 12%, respectively. The mean weight of low-arched individuals was found to be greater than the other two groups (P < 0.001). On comparing the mean values of the three groups, scores were significantly improved in high-arched subjects in the three tests (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Thus, it can be concluded that high-arched individuals show improved speed and dynamic balance and individuals with increased body weight are more prone to flat feet.
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4407616005