Comparison of balance performance, gait, foot function, lower extremity biomechanical alignment and muscle strength in individuals with unilateral and bilateral plantar fasciitis
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Abstract
Background
Given the pedal variations in biomechanical effects, chronicity, treatment implications, and foot function and alignment in plantar fasciitis, we aim to compare key parameters between individuals with unilateral and bilateral plantar fasciitis.
Methods
Thirty individuals (15 unilateral and 15 bilateral) were included in the study. Static balance was evaluated with the Single-Leg Stance Test, dynamic balance with The Star Balance Excursion Test, gait with OneStep 3.20 mobile software, foot function with The Foot Function Index (FFI), biomechanical alignment with medial longitudinal arch height, Q angle, and lower extremity muscle length, and muscle strength with a Hand-held Dynamometer.
Results
The unilateral group exhibited superior performance in unaffected side static and posterolateral dynamic balance (p = 0.037; p = 0.039), and in affected side posterior dynamic balance (p = 0.041). Gait double support asymmetry was better in the unilateral group (p = 0.003). Pain, disability, and activity limitation were more pronounced in the bilateral group (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the groups in medial arch height, Q angle, and muscle shortness/flexibility (p > 0.05). The unilateral group had more strength in the affected side's Gluteus Medius and Adductor muscles (p = 0.046; p = 0.011), as well as in the unaffected side's Quadriceps, Iliopsoas, Gluteus Medius, and Adductor muscles (p = 0.018; p = 0.026; p = 0.006; p = 0.026).
Conclusion
Balance, foot function and muscle strength were better in individuals with unilateral plantar fasciitis. We think more specific treatments should be included in the management of individuals with bilateral plantar fasciitis aiming to improve balance, foot function and muscle strength.
期刊介绍:
Gait & Posture is a vehicle for the publication of up-to-date basic and clinical research on all aspects of locomotion and balance.
The topics covered include: Techniques for the measurement of gait and posture, and the standardization of results presentation; Studies of normal and pathological gait; Treatment of gait and postural abnormalities; Biomechanical and theoretical approaches to gait and posture; Mathematical models of joint and muscle mechanics; Neurological and musculoskeletal function in gait and posture; The evolution of upright posture and bipedal locomotion; Adaptations of carrying loads, walking on uneven surfaces, climbing stairs etc; spinal biomechanics only if they are directly related to gait and/or posture and are of general interest to our readers; The effect of aging and development on gait and posture; Psychological and cultural aspects of gait; Patient education.