Quantitative study of PIMT technique aiming its validation as physical therapy procedure

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Physical Therapy
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Hindfoot valgus is a common postural deviation.
• Associated foot pronation can lead to conditions like tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Purpose of the Study:

• Compare the efficacy of Global Postural Reeducation (GPR) and Postural Integration by Manual Therapy (PIMT) for correcting hindfoot valgus.
• Evaluate treatment outcomes for hindfoot valgus using two distinct manual therapy approaches.

Main Methods:

• Sixty young adult subjects with unilateral hindfoot valgus were divided into GPR and PIMT groups (30 each).
• Baropodometry was used to measure plantar surface and body weight load symmetry before and after a 4-week treatment period, with follow-up at 4 weeks post-treatment.

Main Results:

• Both GPR and PIMT equally improved body weight load symmetry and plantar surface symmetry immediately post-treatment.
• At 4 weeks post-treatment, body weight load symmetry remained comparable between groups, but PIMT demonstrated superior plantar surface symmetry.

Conclusions:

• Postural Integration by Manual Therapy (PIMT) is validated as an effective physical therapy procedure for hindfoot valgus.
• PIMT may offer more sustained benefits for plantar surface symmetry compared to GPR in hindfoot valgus correction.