Foot Posture Index and Plantar Pressure Distribution in Junior Badminton Players in Bangalore

Mathew N; Shaikh T; Mallikarjunaiah HS

doi:10.61386/imj.v19i3.1206

Authors

Mathew N Acharya’s NR Institute of Physiotherapy, Bangalore- 560107, India https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6554-4322
Shaikh T Acharya’s NR Institute of Physiotherapy, Bangalore- 560107, India https://orcid.org/0009-0000-7016-130X
Mallikarjunaiah HS Acharya’s NR Institute of Physiotherapy, Bangalore- 560107, India https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6554-4322

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61386/imj.v19i3.1206

Keywords:

harris mat, foot posture index, plantar pressure

Abstract

Context: The foot is a strong and complex structure which bears weight and allows locomotion. It is divided into the hindfoot, the midfoot, and the forefoot. The plantar fascia is a dense band of connective tissue that is essential for normal foot function. It helps preserve the integrity of the foot's longitudinal arch, provides support during weight-bearing activities, assists in the distribution of mechanical loads, and contributes to efficient gait by enhancing foot stability and movement.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the foot posture index and plantar pressure distribution among junior badminton players.

Materials and Methods: Forty junior badminton players between 9 to 12 years from Bangalore were recruited with purposive sampling in the study. They were evaluated with Harris mat and foot posture index for plantar pressure distribution.

Results: Plantar pressure distributions were seen with Grade 3 in 55% on rear foot and Grade 3 in 52% in fore foot. The left foot FPI-6 assessment indicated that 37[H1.1][NM1.2] (92.5%) of the 40 participants had a normal foot posture, while 3 (7.5%) exhibited pronation.

Conclusion: Most junior badminton players exhibited normal foot posture on FPI-6, while Harris Mat assessment demonstrated Grade 3 as the predominant plantar pressure distribution pattern in the forefoot and rearfoot. These findings highlight the importance of assessing both static foot posture and plantar pressure distribution to facilitate early identification of biomechanical variations in junior badminton players.