Three-dimensional analysis of foot motion after uphill walking with mobilization with movement using tape applied to the talocrural joint in women with limited ankle dorsiflexion.

Abstract

Previous studies that investigated mobilization with movement (MWM) treatment assessed only improvements in passive range of motion (ROM). No information is currently available regarding the efficacy of modified MWM by application of tape. Therefore, we investigated the effect of uphill walking with modified MWM using tape applied to the talocrural joint (uphill walking with MWM taping) in women with limited ankle dorsiflexion. Twelve feet of 12 women with ankle dorsiflexion < 8 degrees were studied. Passive ROM measured using a goniometer was used to select participants. Participants walked on a level walkway under 3 conditions: before exercise, after uphill walking, and after uphill walking with MWM taping. The Oxford Foot Model using 3D motion analysis system was used to examine dynamic foot kinematics, and statistical significance was determined by 1-way repeated-measures analysis of variance. After uphill walking with MWM taping, peak hindfoot dorsiflexion relative to the tibia was significantly greater than that before exercise and after uphill walking. Furthermore, peak forefoot plantarflexion relative to the hindfoot, peak hindfoot plantarflexion relative to the tibia, and backward tilt of the tibia were greater than those before exercise. Uphill walking with MWM taping resulted in an immediate alteration in foot motion during walking, increasing hindfoot dorsiflexion in particular. Further studies are needed to investigate the long-term effects of uphill walking with MWM taping and its potential use in rehabilitation training.