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The effect of forefoot varus on postural stability
Stephen C Cobb1, Laurie L Tis, Benjamin F Johnson
1Department of Kinesiology and Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA.
The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy
|March 27, 2004
Summary
Greater forefoot varus significantly impairs anteroposterior postural stability. This suggests that increased forefoot varus may increase the risk of foot and ankle injuries due to reduced joint stability.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Impaired postural stability (PS) is linked to acute foot and ankle injuries.
- Identifying factors affecting PS is crucial for injury prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the impact of forefoot varus on single-limb stance postural stability.
- Investigate how forefoot varus influences balance during functional tasks.
Main Methods:
- A counterbalanced experimental design compared subjects with significant forefoot varus (MFV) to those with less (LFV).
- Postural stability was assessed during single-limb stance under eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions using force platform data.
- Anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) ground reaction forces were analyzed using 3-way mixed-model ANOVAs.
Main Results:
- Anteroposterior (AP) postural stability scores were significantly worse in the MFV group compared to the LFV group.
- Mediolateral (ML) stability showed a trend towards impairment in the MFV group but did not reach statistical significance.
- Both groups exhibited significantly reduced AP and ML stability when eyes were closed.
Conclusions:
- Forefoot varus, particularly ≥7 degrees, appears to significantly impair anteroposterior postural stability.
- This impairment may stem from reduced joint congruity, leading to greater reliance on soft tissues for stability.
- Findings highlight forefoot varus as a potential contributing factor to foot and ankle injury risk.