The Effect of Subtalar Joint Antipronation Taping on the Dynamic Knee Valgus in Female Volleyball Players with Low Medial Arch: a Double Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial
The Effect of Subtalar Joint Antipronation Taping on the Dynamic Knee Valgus in Female Volleyball Players with Low Medial Arch: a Double Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial
This study aims to investigate the biomechanical mechanisms of dynamic knee valgus and the impact of subtalar pronation, particularly due to decreased medial longitudinal arch, on knee injury risk, highlighting the importance of prevention and intervention strategies for athlete health.
Dynamic knee valgus is an abnormal movement pattern of the lower extremity, formed by the combination of femoral adduction and internal rotation, tibial abduction and internal rotation, and subtalar pronation, and it is a significant risk factor for knee injuries. The foot and ankle represent the first link in the lower extremity kinetic chain, and a mechanical relationship between subtalar joint motion and tibial rotation triggers internal rotation of the tibia during weight-bearing. This is particularly more pronounced in female athletes, as increased foot pronation and medial longitudinal arch (MLA) drop contribute to dynamic knee valgus. Supporting the MLA has become increasingly important in injury prevention, as there is evidence in the literature showing that interventions to reduce foot pronation decrease dynamic knee valgus and help prevent patellofemoral pain and anterior cruciate ligament injuries.
The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of antipronation taping on dynamic knee valgus and knee flexion angle during functional jump tests in female volleyball players with MLA drop. Innovative taping materials, such as Dynamic Tape, when applied correctly, can support the MLA, reduce tibial rotation, and decrease abnormal movements. While there is existing evidence that MLA-supporting orthotics reduce such injury risks, no studies have specifically examined antipronation taping with Dynamic Tape applied to the subtalar joint. This study seeks to explore modifiable risk factors associated with common knee injuries in female athletes from a foot posture perspective and contribute to athlete health.
Inclusion Criteria:
Actively playing volleyball for at least 5 years, A drop of 10 mm or more in the navicular drop test, A score of ≥ +4 according to the A foot posture index.
Exclusion Criteria:
A history of lower extremity injury within the last 3 months, A history of ankle and/or knee surgery, Having non-structural instability, A history of congenital or traumatic deformity in the lower extremity.