Abstract
The study aimed to assess the association between the key predictive foot structure variables and its loading paradigm in 625 school-aged children. Clinical appraisal relied primarily on having the plantar parts of their feet comprehensively assessed with Podoscan 2D Foot CAD, and a dynamometer platform, the research tools of choice widely acknowledged for their overall accuracy and reliability, with a view to determining the distribution of respective foot loads, as well as addressing both balance and gait issues. The Clarke's angle, Wejsflog index, length and width of the feet, regardless of gender, proved the key predictive variables for the foot-loading paradigm. Notably the Clarke's angle, construed the most sensitive variable in assessing flat-footedness, offered an extra added value in overall investigative effort. The actual design of the study protocol effectively complements a standard clinical assessment procedure, whereas by comprehensively addressing those variables, it is also believed to aid clinicians in gaining an extra, hands-on, diagnostic potential, so that any teenagers exposed to the highest risk of developing foot deformities could effectively be identified through pertinent screening tests, and consequently offered a task-oriented, therapeutic management, specifically aimed at preventing potential postural complaints in later life.
Highlights
The study aimed to assess the association between the key predictive foot structure variables and its loading paradigm in 625 school-aged children
The results yielded by the present study corroborate prevalent association established between the morphological structure of the foot and the actual load distribution in its plantar part in the school-aged children
Length and width of the foot stand for the predictive variables accounting for the foot loading paradigm in girls and boys alike
Summary
The study aimed to assess the association between the key predictive foot structure variables and its loading paradigm in 625 school-aged children. Back in the 15th c., Leonardo da Vinci, whilst expressing his appreciation for the phenomenon of the human foot, wrote: "The human foot is a machine of masterful construction and a work of art" This "masterful construction" boasts a fundamental role in a human locomotor system, as its correct anatomical structure determines performance and efficiency of its supporting, carrying, cushioning, transporting, and stabilizing functions. There are several methods of assessing the variables of the plantar part of the foot, some of them more complex than others, e.g. Chippaux-Smirak Index, Staheli Index, Hernández-Corvo Index, Clarke’s angle[6,7,8,9] This said, there are numerous reports attesting to overall credibility and reliability of determining the median longitudinal arch, whilst making use of the Clarke’s angle[9,10,11,12,13].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
