Purpose: The aim of this study is to determine differences in plantar pressure distribution and centre of pressure (COP) characteristics in normal
and at feet individuals.
Methods: Forty individuals (20 normal and 20 at feet) were included in this study for pressure analysis using OHM 3000 (Mumbai, India)
pressure system. Dynamic pressure parameters were recorded for four regions- toes, forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot while walking. Dynamic
parameters included maximum pressure, arch index, centre of pressure excursion index, and pressure time integral (PTI). The COP excursion for
both the groups were macroscopically evaluated. The independent t-test was used for determining the pressure difference between both the groups.
Results:The at feet group reported maximum pressure on the midfoot region relative to the normal foot group. The PTI was recorded higher over
the midfoot and the toe region in the at feet group than those of the normal foot group. The COP excursion in dynamic state was observed to be
traversing straight from the heel to the hallux in at feet group in contrary to the normal foot group which demonstrated a medial shift at the forefoot
region.
Conclusion: The study reports that the individuals with at feet exert increased plantar pressure on the midfoot region compared to that of the
normal foot individuals. The COP excursion in at feet individuals during walking is straight compared to that in the normal foot individuals, which
we believe is due to reduced medial longitudinal arch and hyper pronation at the foot.