Comparison of the Amount and Ratio of Ankle Muscles Isometric Strength in Persons with Planus, Cavus and Normal Foot Types

The purpose of this study was to compare the amount and ratio of ankle muscles isometric strength in persons with planus, cavus, and normal foot types. Male students (n=450) were assessed with podoscope, foot scanner and Staheli index, and 90 of them were selected and divided into planus, cavus and normal foot groups (n=30). To measure isometric strength, we used a digital dynamometer. Average isometric strength of invertors in planus group was less than that in cavus and normal foot groups. Compared with cavus group, mean isometric strength of dorsiflexors and the ratio of invertor muscles isometric strength to evertor muscles isometric strength in planus group were smaller and greater, respectively. The results were indicative of weakness in invertors, dorsiflexors, and the ratio of invertors to evertors in planus group. Therefore, it is recommended to flexible planus foot deformity correction emphasis on strengthening invertors and dorsiflexors.