Comparing the Effects of Orthotic Insoles, Shoes and Taping on the Frequency Content of Ground Reaction Forces During Walking in Athletes With Flexible Flatfeet

 Flatfoot, as a three-dimensional foot deformity can cause alterations in motor function. Different methods, such as exercises, orthotic insoles, and specialized shoes, have been proposed to manage this condition. The present study aimed to compare the effects of orthotic insoles, shoes, and taping on the frequency content of ground reaction forces (GRFs) during walking in athletes with flexible flatfeet.

In this quasi-experimental study, 15 male athletes aged 18-25 years with flexible flatfeet (age: 21.78 ± 2.07 years; height: 1.78 ± 0.07 m; weight: 80.28 ± 8.23 kg) with a history of regular fitness training for at least 6 months participated. The GRF data were collected using a force plate under five walking conditions: shoes (relaxed-fit, breathe-easy Skechers) + insoles (ethylene vinyl acetate), barefoot, shoes, taping, and shoes + taping. The frequency content of the GRFS was then calculated. To compare the frequency content among different walking conditions, repeated measures ANOVA was used. P≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

 The results showed significant differences between the various walking conditions, with the greatest significant reductions in the variables of 99.5% power frequency, median frequency, frequency bandwidth, and mean frequency in the shoes and shoes+ taping conditions (P<0.05). The reduction in frequency content was particularly prominent in the mediolateral direction.

 The use of shoes can result in a greater reduction in the frequency content of GRFs during walking in athletes with flexible flatfeet compared to taping or barefoot walking. Therefore, relaxed-fit, breathe-easy Skechers are recommended for enhancing motor performance in athletes with flexible flatfeet.