Correlation Analysis Between Hip Internal Rotation Range and Plantar Pressure During Standing And Walking

Different studies on football players with fifth metatarsal stress fractures have found that hip internal rotation (HIR) range of motion is significantly reduced, while lateral forefoot pressure is significantly increased; therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether HIR range of motion is related to lateral plantar pressure.

The study included 120 college students (60 males and 60 females). HIR was measured using a smartphone inclinometer app in the prone position and a compass app in the supine position. Plantar pressure was assessed using the Gaitview® AFA-50 system during standing and walking. Correlation analysis was performed using SPSS 27.0.

Among all subjects, HIR activity in the prone position was significantly negatively correlated with standing second through fourth metatarsophalangeal joints (MTPJ2-4), fifth metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ5), and midfoot (FM) pressures and significantly positively correlated with standing first toe (T1) pressure. During walking, there is a significant negative correlation between HIR in the prone position and MTPJ2-4, MTPJ5, FM, and lateral heel (LH). Similarly, in the supine position, HIR is significantly negatively correlated with MTPJ2-4, MTPJ5, FM, medial heel (MH), and LH.

There is a significant negative correlation between HIR and lateral plantar pressure, indicating that reduced HIR is associated with increased lateral plantar pressure. Improving HIR through targeted rehabilitation may reduce lateral plantar pressure, offering new approaches for non-surgical treatment of little toe capsulitis and reducing the risk of fifth metatarsal stress fractures.