Biomechanical and Viscoelastic Properties of Plantar Fascia in Pregnant Women-Pilot Study

Investigation of Normative Values of Trimester-Specific Biomechanical and Viscoelastic Properties of Plantar Fascia in Pregnant Women-Pilot Study

The feet, which are support surfaces, are adapted to the physiological relaxation and biomechanical changes that occur during pregnancy. In this adaptation, it has not been objectively clarified how the plantar fascia, which plays a very important role in maintaining the height of the plantar arch, undergoes a change. Therefore, the aim of this pilot study is to investigate the normative values of trimester-specific biomechanical and viscoelastic properties of the plantar fascia, which adapts to changes in foot structure during pregnancy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• First-time pregnancy
• They are between the ages of 18-40
• Pre-pregnancy Body-Mass-Index (BMI) < 30 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of any connective tissue disease that would affect the biomechanical or viscoelastic properties of the fascia
• Deterioration of skin integrity in measurement areas
• Presence of orthopedic, neurological, rheumatic problems that may cause musculoskeletal disorders and deviations from normal in biomechanical alignment
• History of surgery or fracture in the lower extremity and foot-ankle region in the last 6 months
• Defining metabolic disorders such as type I, II diabetes, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), preeclampsia