Razi Journal of Medical Sciences

Background: One of the most common foot problems is flat foot, which causes pain in the leg complex and postural control deficits. One way to treat flat foot is the use of therapeutic insoles. Insoles can change the distribution of load through the foot and ankle and decrease pain. The aim of this study was to (1) comparing dynamic balance of individuals with flat feet and healthy subjects (2) investigating the effect of insoles on dynamic balance in people with flat feet.
Methods: The participants in this study were 20 patients with flat foot and 20 healthy volunteers. The Star Excursion Balance Test was used to assess the dynamic balance. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine any significant differences.
Results: The results showed that people with flat foot achievement in the Star Excursion Balance Test was significantly lower than healthy controls. In present study, use of therapeutic insoles in flat feet subjects, cause a significant increase in the scores of Star Excursion Balance Test (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The decrease of medial longitudinal arch imposed inappropriate distribution of stresses on the plantar fascia, joints and ligaments of the foot and ankle structures and thus will cause postural dysfunction in people with flat feet. Immediately after using therapeutic insole, dynamic balance will improve