The Relationship Between Pes Planus, Diaphragm, Postural Control, and Plantar Pressure

Examination of Diaphragm Function, Postural Control, and Plantar Pressure in Individuals With Pes Planus

Our primary aim is to compare diaphragm function (resting thickness, activity/resting thickness ratio indicating contractility), postural control, and plantar pressure between individuals with pes planus and healthy controls without pes planus.

Pes planus deformity, by causing pronation during standing, affects the biomechanics of the lower extremities. Improper foot positioning can lead to changes in load distribution under the sole, and consequently, abnormal tensions in the soft tissues of the feet can spread to the upper body parts through the myofascial system. In light of all this information, our primary aim is to examine the diaphragm function and thickness in individuals with pes planus deformity and healthy individuals, and to investigate the relationship between diaphragm thickness and balance. Additionally, our secondary aim is to evaluate the relationship between pes planus, diaphragm thickness, and balance.

Inclusion Criteria:

Inclusion criteria for individuals with Pes Planus Deformity

• Willing to participate in the study voluntarily
• Having a Navicular drop test value of 10mm or above
• Being between the ages of 18-30
• Having the physical capacity to perform assessments and tests
• Having a body mass index of 18-25 kg/m²

Exclusion Criteria:

• Exclusion criteria for individuals with Pes Planus Deformity:
• Termination of voluntariness
• Those with rigid flatfoot, pes cavus, hallux valgus, hallux rigidus, or calcaneal spur deformity
• Those with chronic systematic and metabolic diseases (e.g., diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.) and musculoskeletal problems (e.g., pes planus) that may affect foot functions and gait
• Those with any surgical history likely to affect balance, lower extremity strength, and postural control
• Those with any visual/vestibular, musculoskeletal, or neurological problems"

Inclusion criteria for healthy participants:

• Willing to participate in the study voluntarily
• Being between the ages of 18-30
• Having the physical capacity to perform assessments and tests
• Having a body mass index of 18-25 kg/m²
• Having the ideal height of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot (not having pes planus)

Exclusion criteria for healthy participants:

• Termination of voluntariness
• Those with chronic systematic and metabolic diseases (e.g., diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.) and musculoskeletal problems (e.g., pes planus) that may affect foot functions and gait
• Those with any surgical history likely to affect balance, lower extremity strength, and postural control
• Those with any visual/vestibular, musculoskeletal, or neurological problems"