It is assumed that foot posture could be contributed to musculoskeletal conditions of the lower Limb. Consequently, it may alter lower limb alignment and function. The purpose of this study was to assess some selected clinical lower limb measures including tendo-Achilles length, Q angle and hamstring tightness among females with pes planus in comparison with controls.
Twenty-eight college-age females with pes planus and twenty-four age-matched healthy controls were selected to participate in the study. Foot type was measured by navicular-drop method. Selected clinical measures as tendo-Achilles length, knee alignment and hamstring tightness were measured by lunge test, Q angle test and the active knee extension test respectively. Independent t-test was employed for statistical analysis (p<0.05).
Subjects with pes planus deformity had significantly a greater amount of lunge test, Q angle test and the active knee extension test than those of controls (p=0.01 and p=0.000 respectively).
The individuals with pes planus had a longer tendo-Achille, greater hamstring tightness and the Q angle as well. These findings could be affected lower extremity function and foot pain. These effects should be considered when assessing lower limb function or designing treatment protocols.