Effect of Kinesiotaping Versus Short Foot Exercises in Children with Functional Flat Feet

Abstract

Background: Flat Foot also known as pes planus is the condition wherein the curvature of the medial longitudinal arch is flatter than the normal with entire sole of the foot comes in contact to the ground. These could be because of factors such as muscle weakness, ligament laxity, failure in development of reflexes even after the child starts walking, if left untreated this may lead to complications including the foot pain, frequent falls, impaired gait and can affect the quality of life too. Objective: The objective of the study was to compare the effects of Kinesiotaping and Short Foot Exercises on children with functional flat feet. Method: 30 students were selected for the study according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were divided into Group A and Group B. The individuals in Group A received Kinesio-taping along with short foot exercises and the individuals in Group B received the short foot exercises. Results: Both the groups showed improvement in navicular drop test and the foot posture index but individuals in group B treated with kinesio-taping and short foot exercises showed more statistical significance. Conclusion: The study concluded that kinesio- taping along with short foot exercises was found to be effective as a treatment plan for children with functional flat feet aged 6-12 years.