ORIGINAL PAPER
Effect of backward walking training on foot posture and balance in flat foot adults
 
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1
Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
 
2
Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
 
 
Submission date: 2020-05-05
 
 
Acceptance date: 2020-08-03
 
 
Publication date: 2022-05-16
 
 
Physiother Quart. 2022;30(2):24-29
 
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Introduction:
Flat foot changes the posture of the foot and affects dynamic balance. Backward walking is a novelty in rehabilitative clinic; it improves strength and balance. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of backward walking training on foot posture and dynamic balance in flat foot subjects.

Methods:
Overall, 44 participants with bilateral mobile flat foot, aged 19–35 years, were randomly assigned to 2 equal groups. Group A received backward walking training 3 times/week for 6 weeks, in addition to traditional physical therapy exercises. Group B received traditional physical therapy exercises only, 3 times/week for 6 weeks. Before and after treatment, foot posture was assessed with the Foot Posture Index and balance was evaluated with the HUMAC Balance System through the Limits of Stability test.

Results:
Statistical analysis revealed a significant reduction in the Foot Posture Index and a significant increase of the Limits of Stability in both groups after treatment compared with the pre-treatment status (p < 0.001). Comparison between the groups after treatment showed a significant decrease in the Foot Posture Index in group A compared with group B (p < 0.05) and a significant increase in the Limits of Stability in group A compared with group B (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:
Backward walking training as an addition to physical therapy exercises of flat foot can improve foot posture and enhance balance in comparison with physical therapy exercises alone.

 
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