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Updated: Jul 16, 2026

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Experimental Methods to Study Human Postural Control
Published on: September 11, 2019
Prediction of dynamic foot posture during running using the longitudinal arch angle
Thomas G McPoil1, Mark W Cornwall
1Department of Physical Therapy, Gait Research Laboratory, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA.
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
|March 21, 2007
Summary
Static measurement of the longitudinal arch angle accurately predicts dynamic foot posture in runners. This simple assessment can be reliably used during physical exams for walking and running analysis.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Podiatry
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Understanding dynamic foot posture is crucial for runners.
- The longitudinal arch angle is a key foot morphology characteristic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the predictive capability of the static longitudinal arch angle for dynamic foot posture during running.
- To validate the use of longitudinal arch angle in clinical assessments.
Main Methods:
- 17 healthy, experienced runners were recruited.
- Static longitudinal arch angle was measured from digital images in relaxed standing.
- Dynamic foot posture was captured via video during walking and running.
Main Results:
- Static longitudinal arch angle strongly predicted dynamic foot posture during walking (r² = 0.854) and running (r² = 0.846).
- Over 85% of variance in dynamic foot posture was explained by the static measurement.
Conclusions:
- Static longitudinal arch angle is a highly reliable predictor of dynamic foot posture in runners.
- This measurement is a valuable component of foot and ankle physical examinations.
- The findings support the routine use of longitudinal arch angle assessment.
