A comparative analysis of age-related alterations in foot biomechanics and visual input in pre-adolescent and adolescent children with normal body mass index

Abstract

Background: Foot biomechanics undergo age related changes and visual input may be important for postural stability and stance dynamics. This study aimed to investigate how age-related alterations in foot biomechanics and visual input interact to influence postural stability and stance dynamics in children aged 6 to 19 years. Materials and methods: Prospective observational study was conducted after getting permission from Institutional Ethics Committee. Informed consent was obtained before collecting data. OHM3000 used for collecting data. Data was collected for bipedal stance test, stabilometry test with eyes open and eyes closed, and dynamic stance test during walking with predefined protocol. Result: Statistically significant difference in maximum pressure, average pressure, foot area and foot length are exhibited in both feet with higher values in adolescents as compared to pre-adolescents. Maximum lateral deviation was significantly less in adolescent with eyes open toward right feet as compare to preadolescents and the difference was lost with eyes closed. Maximum pressure, average pressure, foot contact area and forefoot maximum pressure in both feet were statistical significance. Conclusion: Increased maximum pressure, average pressure, foot area and foot length indicating physical growth and higher load-bearing capacities in adolescents. Weight distribution over the forefoot and hindfoot remained consistent across age groups even if significant changes shown in foot size and pressure. Visual input significantly improved postural stability in both groups. Adolescents show better postural stability probably due to foot maturation. During walking, adolescents showed increased maximum and average pressures, especially in forefoot. Keywords: foot; clinical anatomy; biomechanics; adolescents; children; postural stability; gait; visual input