Dendrogram for Anthropometric and Biomechanical Variables Causing Foot Deformities by Using Hierarchical Cluster Analysis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the factors associated with pathomechanical conditions and to determine the clustering tendency of the variables by dendrogram.

Methods

The cross-sectional study was carried out with 108 physiotherapy students aged 21.36 ± 1.35 years. The variables included in the study were quadriceps (Q), subtalar, and valgus angles and medial longitudinal arch (MLA) and hallux valgus angles. The MLA and metatarsal width were measured and navicular drop tests performed under weighted and nonweighted conditions. Hierarchical cluster analysis was used to determine the clustering tendency of the variables and see how these clusters might converge.

Results

Two main clusters of variables were obtained using hierarchical cluster analysis. In the first main cluster, the weighted and nonweighted metatarsal widths of the left and right sides, age, hallux valgus angle, and subtalar pronation angles of the left and right sides were found to be significantly related to each other. In the second main cluster, the weighted and nonweighted MLA, knee valgus and Q angles, weight, body mass index, weighted and nonweighted navicular drop values, gender, and height were found to be significantly related to each other.

Conclusion

The relationships between variables such as MLA, hallux valgus angles, knee valgus and Q angles, weight, body mass index, weighted and nonweighted navicular drop values, gender, and height seem to be associated with pathomechanical conditions.