Relationship Between Plantar Pressure, Body Mass Index and Balance in Children: A Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Biomechanics
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Assessing the relationship between body mass index (BMI), foot pressure, and balance in children is crucial for understanding pediatric health.
• Previous research has highlighted the impact of weight on physical performance, but specific data on plantar pressure and balance in children is evolving.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between foot pressure, body mass index (BMI), and balance in children aged 8-12 years.
• To determine how different weight categories (underweight, normal weight, overweight, obese) affect plantar pressure distribution and postural stability.

Main Methods:

• Ninety children aged 8-12 years participated.
• Foot pressure was measured using a pedograph.
• Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated using CDC charts, and balance was assessed with a Biodex balance system.

Main Results:

• Overweight/obese children had significantly higher peak plantar pressure compared to normal weight and underweight children (p < 0.05).
• Normal weight children also exhibited higher peak plantar pressure than underweight children (p < 0.05).
• Overweight/obese children showed significantly higher anterior-posterior, medial-lateral, and overall stability indices than normal and underweight children (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• A positive association exists between plantar pressure, BMI, and balance in children across different weight categories.
• Higher BMI in children is linked to increased peak plantar pressure and reduced postural stability.
• Increased body mass presents challenges to balance control in overweight and obese children.