The Effect of Toe Flexion Exercises on Grip.

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Podiatry
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Toe flexor muscle weakness is linked to toe pathologies.
• Toe grip exercises show clinical promise for improving toe function.
• The impact of toe flexor exercises on grip strength and function remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of toe flexor exercises on plantar pressure during seated and gait activities.
• To assess toe grip strength and its influence on forefoot mechanics.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-three healthy individuals performed daily toe grip exercises for six weeks.
• Plantar pressure (static and dynamic) and forefoot contact parameters were measured pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• Significant increases in static peak pressure and pressure-time integral were observed on the second and third digits.
• Dynamic peak force and contact area did not change, but percentage contact time increased significantly across metatarsals.

Conclusions:

• Toe grip exercises improved static apical pressure and metatarsal contact time during gait.
• Enhanced pressure and contact time may contribute to better forefoot stability and gait efficiency, potentially slowing toe pathology progression.