Differences in Pes Planus and Pes Cavus subtalar eversion/inversion before and after prolonged running, using a...

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Medicine
• Podiatry

Background:

• Foot hyper-pronation and supination during loading are frequently discussed in relation to sports injuries.
• Understanding subtalar joint dynamics is crucial for analyzing foot function during running.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate differences in subtalar joint function between individuals with Pes Planus and Pes Cavus during the midstance phase of running.
• To assess changes in foot mechanics after 5 minutes and 45 minutes of running.

Main Methods:

• Inclusion of 34 subjects (30 Pes Planus feet, 35 Pes Cavus feet) based on Medial Longitudinal Arch-angle criteria.
• Measurement of calcaneal vertical angle (subtalar joint eversion/inversion) using 2D digital analysis and Dartfish Software.
• Data collection during treadmill running (barefoot) and after 45 minutes of outdoor running (shod).

Main Results:

• Both Pes Cavus and Pes Planus groups demonstrated a significant increase in calcaneal eversion after 45 minutes of running (P<0.05).
• Pes Planus subjects exhibited significantly greater eversion in the right foot after 45 minutes compared to Pes Cavus subjects (P<0.05).

Conclusions:

• Running fatigue significantly impacts subtalar joint eversion in both flat and high-arched feet.
• Pes Planus may be associated with greater susceptibility to excessive eversion under fatigue during running.
• Further biomechanical research is warranted to understand the link between fatigue, foot mechanics, and overuse injuries in runners.