Lower Limb Symmetry Index in Cavus and Normal Feet by Means of a Baropodometric Platform: A Case–Control Study

Abstract

High-arched feet affect approximately 10%–15% of the general population. Although the relationship between plantar pressure and bilateral symmetry is well studied, there is limited evidence regarding the use of Symmetry Index and pressure platforms. The objective of the study is to compare dynamic foot pressures and Symmetry Index during gait between subjects with Pes Cavus and subjects with normal feet. The analysis of asymmetric pressure patterns could benefit from studies that compare dynamic foot pressures and Symmetry Index values in subjects with high-arched feet and normal feet. This analysis can promote better clinical understanding of gait alterations and help solve biomechanical problems that may lead to pathologies, as well as prevent and treat them. A descriptive case–control study was developed from October to December 2024 with 82 participants, 41 with Pes Cavus and 41 normal feet and 71 females of 25.52 ± 5.99 years through a consecutive nonrandom technique. For this study, a baropodometry platform (Neo-Plate, Herbitas) was used, which acquired dynamic gait with a 2-step protocol. The inclusion criteria regarding the selection of subjects were age 18–65 years; if both cavus feet, Navicular Drop Test (NDT) < 9 mm; neutral feet and no lower limb problem or surgery. Regarding SI use, the PC demonstrated to have large asymmetries compared to the control group. Left anterior pressure was lower (44.93% ± 4.59% vs. 48.60% ± 3.43%, p = 0.014), left posterior pressure was higher (55.07% ± 4.58% vs. 51.40% ± 3.43%, p = 0.013) and the left Initial Contact Phase (ICP) was prolonged (123.34 ± 51.75 ms vs. 91.30 ± 31.86 ms, p = 0.036); right medial pressure was higher (58.18% ± 4.08% vs. 53.77% ± 4.79%, p = 0.034). SI measurements were greater in normal foot group than in the PC group with SI 94.15% ± 5.00% versus 93.75% ± 4.59%, p = 0.001, respectively; ICP and lateral SI were both p = 0.001. Findings confirmed that subjects with cavus feet tend to present greater alterations in bilateral symmetry, specifically posteromedial pressure movements and altered gait phases, which are indicative of more probability of future injuries. For this reason, pressure platforms are excellent tools for understanding, analysing and therefore applying the correct treatment according to the SI.