Evaluating the effect of dynamic taping on gait parameters and balance in young adults with flexible flat foot
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Abstract
Background: Flexible flatfoot (FFF) is a condition in which the medial longitudinal arch (MLA) collapses, resulting in a gait that is not efficient and causes a lack of balance. Dynamic taping (DT) is an extremely elastic treatment that is aimed at helping to move and offering immediate mechanical support.
Objective: The study aims to assess the short-term impact of DT on gait kinetics and dynamic postural control in young adults with FFF.
Materials and Methods: A total of fifty FFF young adults (37 females and 13 males) were recruited. The measurements of MLA angles occurred during the occurrence of the stance phase through the aid of Kinovea software and the evaluation of dynamic balance through the Y-Balance Test (YBT). Measurements were done before and after using the DT.
Results: The results were very significant (p < 0.001) in all MLA angles decreased considerably at the point of the heel strike (156.2-143.4 degrees) and foot flat (162.2-146.3 degrees). The toe-off angles were higher compared to 151.3°, 157.7° and indicative of improved propulsion and activation of the Windlass mechanism. The YBT scores increased to 70.2, and this was a better dynamic stability.
Conclusion: Dynamic taping is a non-invasive intervention in FFF management with the benefit of delivering immediate mechanical arch support and improved proprioceptive feedback to improve gait and balance.
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References
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