The Influence of Bilateral and Unilateral Flatfoot on Coronal Spinopelvic Alignment in Asymptomatic Young Healthy Males

Abstract

Background: This cross-sectional retrospective study aimed to present the influence of unilateral and bilateral flatfoot on coronal spinopelvic alignment in asymptomatic young healthy males. Methods: It was carried out by examining the medical reports of individuals who apply to the National Health Board to work in positions requiring physical fitness between January 2018 and January 2019. Plain radiographies of the feet, pelvis, and spine were analyzed. Calcaneal pitch angle (CPA) for flatfoot, pelvic obliquity (PO), and Cobb angle (CA) for spinal asymmetry was measured. After all analyzes were completed, participants divided into 2 groups as unilateral (UniFF) or bilateral (BiFF) flatfoot, depending on the CPA measurements and compared. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in age (p= .609). The UniFF group showed higher values in terms of BMI with a statistically significant difference (p= .01). The curve patterns identified as single thoracal, lumbal and double. Post hoc analyses suggests that males without spinal asymmetry were more likely to have unilateral flatfoot (p< .008). There were statistically significant differences between groups in PO and CA (p< .05). The effect size was found small to medium effect for PO and medium to large for CA. Conclusions: In conclusion, young males with bilaterally increased foot pronation demonstrate more increased pelvic obliquity and spinal curvature.