Evaluating Dynamic Balance and Isometric Hip Muscle Strengths of Healthy Adolescents With Different Foot Posture Alteration

Abstract

Hip abductor (ABD) and adductor (ADD) muscle imbalances lead to injuries in lumbo-pelvic hip complex, and these imbalances and other factors such as foot posture might affect dynamic balance. The present study aims to examine body mass index (BMI), dynamic balance and hip muscle strength values of adolescents with different foot posture alteration. Fifty-nine healthy adolescents (mean age 12±3 years, height 156±11.46 cm, weight 50.57±11.60 kg) voluntarily participated in the study. The participants were divided into two groups according to Foot Posture Index (FPI): (Neutral Foot Group (NFG), n=48 / Prone Foot Group (PFG), n=11). The participants’ single leg – both legs dynamic balance values were measured by using balance measurement device (TOGUtm), and their hip ABD and ADD isometric muscle strengths were measured through the load cell. The dynamic balance, BMI and muscle strength values of the groups were compared by using Independent Sample t-Test. A statistically significant difference was found between the groups according to right and left single leg dynamic balance values (p<0.05). The study revealed that one of the most significant factors affecting dynamic balance in adolescents is foot posture. It is believed that using insoles suitable for the foot posture might be helpful in increasing the efficiency of dynamic movements carried out on a single leg and it is essential to suggest some exercises to correct foot postures when necessary.