Is a pedometric assessment necessary for American football players? A cross-sectional study

There is insufficient research on the distribution of foot pressure in American football players, categorized by player positions on the field.

To assess the impact of American football training on static foot pressure distribution during bipedal standing with eyes open and closed, comparing offensive and defensive players.

In this cross-sectional observational study, 105 men (70 American football players, 35 controls) were examined using the Zebris FDM-S podobarographic platform. Parameters related to foot pressure and postural balance were analyzed.

American football players demonstrate good balance and pressure distribution in their feet during bipedal standing with open eyes. The foot pressure patterns worsen during bipedal standing with closed eyes for offensive players compared to visual control (p = 0.02).

When visual input was removed, the offensive players exhibited more forefoot loading, while the defensive group showed higher hindfoot loading. A significant difference in the total load of the left foot between the attack and control groups further emphasizes the variability in the distribution of foot load within the groups, and due to the position on the field when vision is limited. In our opinion, the greater exposure to foot load changes in offensive players provides some basis for the implementation of preventative measures for pronated feet and training aimed at strengthening the short foot muscles, stabilizing the ankle joints, and improving proprioception.