Changes in Gait Parameters and the Podal System Depending on the Presence of a Specific Malocclusion Type in School-Age Children

Abstract

Background: The correspondence between various aspects of human postural parameters and the spatial relation of the jaws is of increasing interest among scientists. Emerging research suggests that the stomatognathic system and posture play, in a broad sense, significant roles. Objectives: The aim of the study was to analyze the relationship between various malocclusion types and gait parameters, the distribution of foot pressure on the ground, and body balance. Methods: The study involved 155 patients aged 12-16. The subjects were divided into groups according to their malocclusion—Angle’s class II (n = 32), Canine class II (n = 31), and Overbite (n = 46). The control group (n = 46) comprised children not demonstrating any defects. The study data were collected by direct observation of the oral cavity. Gait analysis was carried out using the Wiva® Science sensor, and the distribution of foot forces on the ground and body balance was determined via the E.P.S R/1 pedobarographic mat. The non-parametric Mann–Whitney U test was applied for statistical analysis. Results: Analysis of the results obtained showed statistically significant differences in left step duration (p = 0.042) and the duration of the right step (p = 0.021), as well as the projection of the body’s center of gravity on the left foot (p = 0.027). Conclusions: Distoocclusion in the anterior part of the mandible may cause different positioning of the head and neck, as well as varying tension of the muscles, further leading to balance disorders while walking.