Change in the Height of the Medial Longitudinal Plantar Arch according to the Distance between the Knees While Performing Squats

Abstract

Background The squat is not only used for training purposes in many sports, but also for rehabilitation after knee surgery, such as cruciate ligament repair surgery. However, when the squatting posture becomes unstable during the exercise or the body alignment changes, it can cause injury to the back or knees. Purpose This study examined the change in height of the medial longitudinal plantar arch according to the distance between the knees while performing squats. Study design Pre/post–test design. Methods The subject maintained a squat against a wall, with the hips and knees at 90 degrees. The distance between the knees was the independent variable: two-, three, and four-thirds of the pelvic width. We measured the navicular drop in the three squatting stances. Results The navicular drop differed significantly among the three conditions. Conclusions Changing the distance between the knees while squatting affects the medial longitudinal plantar arch. Clinicians should educate their patients on the correct squat position.