Impact of Foot Muscle Exercise with Kinesio-Taping Versus Prefabricated Orthoses on Balance in Obese Adults with Flexible Flatfoot: A Comparative Study.

Abstract

Background: Obesity is associated with a higher prevalence of flexible flatfoot, which can impair balance & functional mobility. While both Kinesio-taping & orthotic support is commonly used with foot muscle exercises, their comparative effectiveness for balance improvement in obese individuals with flexible flatfoot remains unclear.

Objectives: To compare the effectiveness of foot muscle exercise combined with kinesio-taping versus foot muscle exercise combined with prefabricated orthosis on static and dynamic balance, as well as foot posture, in obese adults with flexible flatfoot.

Methodology: participants were randomly assigned to 2 groups: Group A received foot muscle exercise combined with kinesio-taping & group B received foot muscle exercise combined with  prefabricated orthosis. Outcome measures included the single leg stance test (Static balance), star excursion balance test (dynamic balance), Navicular drop test, & foot posture index.

Results: Both groups showed significant improvements in static balance, dynamic balance, & foot posture following the intervention. However, Group B demonstrated greater improvements in dynamic balance & navicular hight compared to Group A. No significant difference was observed in static balance or overall foot posture index.

Conclusion: Foot muscle exercise combined with either kineo-taping or prefabricated orthotic support effectively improves balance & foot posture in obese adults with flexible flatfoot. However, combining foot muscle exercise with prefabricated orthosis yields superior improvements in dynamic balance & navicular height. Incorporating prefabricated orthotic support alongside exercise is recommended for optimal management of balance & arch support in this population.