Influence of the inner longitudinal arch of the foot on the gait cycle and center-of-foot-pressure trajectory during gait

Abstract

[Purpose] To compare the gait characteristics of individuals with different inner longitudinal arches of the foot using a treadmill with a plantar pressure distribution measurement system. [Subjects and Methods] The arch height rates of 26 healthy adults were measured to divide them into low (LA) and normal (NA) arch groups, and compare their gait analysis results. [Results] Compared with the NA group, the LA groups showed significantly higher values representing the step length, stride length, gait velocity, and center-of-foot-pressure trajectory length during the single-support phase. Furthermore, their values were markedly lower during the double-support phase. [Conclusion] The results suggest that the presence of flatfoot or a reduced inner longitudinal arch of the foot does not interfere with propulsive force production during gait.