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Experimental Methods to Study Human Postural Control
Published on: September 11, 2019
Proprioception and Balance in Young Adults with Pes Planus
Fatma Betul Yardimci1, Zeynep Yilmaz2, Bahar Anaforoglu3
1Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Mardin Artuklu University, Mardin 47100, Türkiye.
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
|July 24, 2026
Summary
Young adults with pes planus (flat feet) exhibit impaired active proprioception and reduced balance in the posterolateral direction. Early interventions are crucial for addressing these neurosensory deficits associated with foot structure.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Neuroscience
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Pes planus, a common foot deformity, can lead to structural and functional issues.
- Altered foot morphology in pes planus is linked to neurosensory changes, affecting proprioception and balance.
- Understanding these neurosensory impacts is vital for managing pes planus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate proprioception and balance in young adults with pes planus.
- To compare these parameters between individuals with and without pes planus.
- To investigate the neurosensory consequences of flat feet in a young adult population.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 90 university students (18-30 years old).
- Pes planus identified using the Navicular Drop Test.
- Proprioception assessed via active and passive joint position sense (digital goniometer); balance evaluated using the Y Balance Test.
Main Results:
- Significant difference in active joint position sense in the pes planus group (p=0.032).
- No significant difference in passive joint position sense (p=0.769).
- Reduced balance performance observed in the posterolateral direction for individuals with pes planus (p=0.045).
Conclusions:
- Flexible pes planus is associated with altered active proprioception and impaired posterolateral balance in young adults.
- These findings suggest pes planus impacts both structural and neurosensory functions.
- Highlights the need for early protective interventions and future research on rigid pes planus.
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