EFFECT OF STRENGTH TRAINING FOR INTRINSIC FLEXOR MUSCLE OF THE FOOT VERSUS BAREFOOT WEIGHT BEARING EXERCISE ON FOOT FUNCTION AND DYNAMIC PARAMETER AMONG INDIVIDUALS WITH FLAT FEET: AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY
Authors: Bhimavat S , VYAS D (PT)*AND GADHAVI B (PT)*

ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Flat foot, also commonly described as pes planus, is a deformity of the foot marked by the collapse or absence of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot. The primary factors that are believed to give rise to an acquired flat foot deformity include dysfunction of the posterior tibial tendon, tightness of the triceps surae or isolated gastrocnemius, ligamentous laxity in plantar ligaments, and obesity. When the Medial longitudinal arch diminishes or disappears entirely, there will be a loss of balance and a reduction in shock absorption capability, which could lead to structural or functional deformation. Walking and running will become less stable as a result, which will decrease walking efficiency and endurance. METHODOLOGY: A total number of 150 individuals were selected in the study by using navicular drop test and Berkemann footprint. Out of which 120 were included. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, participants were recruited into two group. Group A consists of 53 participants and group B consists of 57. All the individuals were pre and post assessed for outcome measures for foot functions and disability on the basis of FADI and Dynamic parameter using one legged long jumping and vertical jump test before starting the intervention. Group A received Strength training for intrinsic flexor muscles of foot for 5 times a week for 4 weeks. Group B received Barefoot weight bearing exercise combined with strength training for intrinsic flexor muscles of the foot. The training period were for 5 times a week for 4 weeks. Subjects within the age group of 18-25years. RESULT: Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 25 (IBM). The result shows difference present between pre and post treatment when assessed with FADI, VJT and OLLJ test. The difference being significant with p < 0.05 suggest that there is improvement after the treatment. CONCLUSION: Present study concluded that there was significant improvement in both the groups for foot function and dynamic parameters that is FADI and VJT, but for OLLJ both groups were compared, Group A was found to be more effective than Group B. Keywords: Strength training for intrinsic flexor muscle of the foot, Barefoot weight bearing exercise, Flatfoot, Short foot exercise, Foot and ankle disability index, Vertical jump test, One legged long jumping
Publication date: 01/11/2025
    https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2025/November/MS_IJBPAS_2025_9511.pdf
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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2025/14.11.9511