Effects of the Short Foot Exercise

NewsBot · Jul 24, 2022

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The effects of short foot exercises to treat flat foot deformity: A systematic review
Hara, Shigeyukia | Kitano, Masashib | Kudo, Shintaroub
Journal: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-13, 2022

BACKGROUND:
Studies on the effects of performing short foot exercises (SFEs) on the medial longitudinal arch (MLA) have been inconclusive.

OBJECTIVE:
This study aimed to conduct a systematic review of the effects of SFEs.

METHODS:
‘SFE’ and ‘intrinsic foot muscle’ were keywords used to search for randomized controlled trials. One researcher screened relevant articles based on their titles and abstracts, and two independent researchers closely read the texts, accepting nine studies for inclusion. Outcomes, intervention duration, frequency, and the number of interventions were investigated.

RESULTS:
Of 299 potential studies identified, the titles and abstracts of 211 studies were reviewed, and 192 were excluded. The full texts of 21 studies were obtained and evaluated according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Six studies concerning the MLA were identified, with four reporting MLA improvement. There was no consensus concerning the number and frequency of SFEs performed, and the mechanism of MLA improvement was unclear. MLA improvement was observed in participants who undertook ⩾ 5 weeks of interventions.

CONCLUSIONS:
The results suggest that performing SFEs for ⩾ 5 weeks is effective in improving the MLA. Randomized controlled trials with details concerning the number and frequency of treatments are required.
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NewsBot · Jul 24, 2022

Related:
Other threads tagged with short foot exercise

NewsBot · Oct 14, 2022

Effects of the Short-Foot Exercise on Foot Alignment and Muscle Hypertrophy in Flatfoot Individuals: A Meta-Analysis
Ching Huang et al
Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Sep 22;19(19

This study aimed to conduct a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to examine the effects of the short-foot exercise (SFE) compared to foot orthosis or other types of interventions. Eligibility criteria involved participants with flatfoot engaging in the SFE compared to other forms of intervention or control groups without specific intervention. Relevant studies published before the end of June 2022 were identified from databases. A meta-analysis was performed by calculating the mean differences (MD) and standard MD (SMD) using the random effects model. Six trials with 201 patients (out of 609 records) that met selection criteria were reviewed. Five of the six trials implemented distinct interventions in the control group such as shoe insoles and muscle strengthening exercises, while in the remaining trial, controls received no intervention. The SFE group significantly reduced the navicular drop test (NDT) values (MD: -0.23; 95% confidence interval: -0.45 to -0.02; p = 0.04) and the foot posture index (FPI-6) score (MD: -0.67; 95% confidence interval: -0.98 to -0.36; p < 0.0001) when compared to the control group. The muscle hypertrophy did not differ significantly between the groups. The SFE may contribute more benefits than other intervention as it affects flatfoot individuals' foot alignment. Hence, the SFE is recommended as a beneficial dynamic support when facing flatfoot problems.
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NewsBot · Jun 27, 2023

Effects of short foot exercise combined with lower extremity training on dynamic foot function in individuals with flexible flatfoot: A randomized controlled trial
Nalut Utsahachant et al
Gait & Posture; Volume 104, July 2023, Pages 109-115

Background
Flexible flatfoot has demonstrated biomechanical linkages between distal and proximal lower extremities. However, supporting evidence is required to investigate the benefits of short foot exercise (SF) and short foot exercise in combination with lower extremity training (SFLE) on dynamic foot function.

Research question
This study aimed to determine the effects of a 6-week SF, 6-week SFLE, or control condition (no intervention) on dynamic foot function during gait in individuals with flexible flatfoot.

Methods
Forty-five individuals with flexible flatfoot were randomly assigned into three conditions: (1) SF, (2) SFLE, and (3) control conditions. Participants in two intervention programs performed daily training via telerehabilitation and a home-based exercise program. Foot kinematics and center of pressure excursion index (CPEI) during the gait, intrinsic foot muscle test, and navicular drop test were assessed at baseline and after the 6-week intervention program.

Results
Post-intervention participants in the SF and SFLE conditions showed a shorter time to the lowest medial longitudinal arch (MLA) and improved MLA motion during the stance phase compared with the baseline. In addition, participants in the SFLE conditions showed greater changes in CPEI than in the SF and control conditions. Improvements in intrinsic foot muscle and navicular drop tests were also observed in participants in both intervention programs post-intervention.

Significance
A major finding of the study was the improvement in dynamic foot function during gait in individuals with flexible flatfoot after the six weeks of the SF and SFLE intervention programs. Both intervention programs appear to have the potential for inclusion in a corrective program for individuals with flexible flatfoot.
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NewsBot · Oct 31, 2023

Efficacy of Faradic Foot Baths and Short Foot
Exercises in Symptomatic Flatfoot: A Review
Anushri R. Patil et al
Cureus

Flatfoot is a common condition among adults, according to orthopedic experts. Flatfoot is defined in this
document as a foot condition that occurs after the completion of skeletal growth and is characterized by
either partial or complete reduction of the medial longitudinal arch (MLA). The purpose of this study was to
evaluate the effects of short foot exercise (SFE) and faradic foot baths on people who have flat feet. This
review focused on comprehensive original primary articles written in English. Numerous studies have been
conducted in order to determine the effects of both interventions. The search yielded a wide range of papers,
including editorials, review articles, freely available full texts, and abstracts. The results showed that both
SFE and faradic foot baths effectively improved flat feet.
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NewsBot · Dec 28, 2023

Effect of short-foot exercise on adult flatfoot: a systematic review
Zhongqi YU; Chao WANG; Gang HE; Liang ZHANG; Ruiyan WANG.
Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Theory and Practice ; (12): 551-557, 2023.

ObjectiveTo systematically review the effects of short-foot exercise on adult flatfoot. MethodsArticles related to short-foot exercise for flatfoot were searched from PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, Scopus, CNKI, Wanfang Data and CBM, from January, 2010 to December, 2022. The methodological quality was evaluated with the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale, and the relevant data were extracted. ResultsTen randomized controlled trials were included, involved 335 individuals. The mean score of the PEDro scale was 7.1. Short-foot exercise improved the navicular drop, posture index score, balance and cross-sectional area of abductor hallucis muscle for patients with flatfoot, but plantar pressure. ConclusionShort-foot exercise can improve the foot structure, balance and adductor hallucis muscle in adult flatfoot, but plantar pressure.
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NewsBot · Jan 18, 2024

Effects of short foot exercises with ultrasound bio-feedback on motor learning and foot alignment: A double blinded randomized control trial
Shintarou Kudo et al
J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2023 Dec 13

Background: Short foot exercises (SFE) take a long time to master and require a feedback tool to improve motor learning.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of bio-feedback of talonavicular joint movements in learning SFE with ultrasound (US) imaging.

Methods: This study included thirty-one healthy volunteers and was designed as a double-blind randomized control trial. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the control group, which performed SFE under verbal instruction, and the US bio-feedback (USBF) group, which performed SFE with real-time bio-feedback of the talonavicular joint alignment. All subjects underwent two sessions of 5 minutes each, and SFE was performed as a self-exercise, between sessions, for one week. The difference in foot length and navicular height were assessed at baseline, after Session 1, before Session 2, and one week after Session 2. These differences were compared between the two groups using the Mann-Whitney U test.

Results: In terms of navicular height change, the USBF group (7.5 ± 4.3 mm) was significantly higher than the control group (4.2 ± 3.3 mm) one week after session 2 (p= 0.04, effect size = 0.86).
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NewsBot · Feb 26, 2024

Effectiveness of Jumping Rope Exercise Verses Short Foot Exercise on Pain and Quality of Life for Subjects with Flat Foot.
Preethi K.; Kamalakannan M.; Anitha A.; Ramana K.
Indian Journal of Physiotherapy & Occupational Therapy, 2024, Vol 18, p725

Background: Pes planus, commonly known as flat foot, is a deformity that leads to the collapse of the medial longitudinal arch and flattening of the foot against the ground. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of jumping rope exercise and short foot exercise on pain reduction and improvement in quality of life for patients with flatfoot. Purpose: To find out the effect of Jumping rope exercise versus short foot exercise among individuals with flatfoot. Method: A sample of 30 participants who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected for the study. They were divided into two groups: the jumping rope exercise group with ultrasound (n=15) and the short foot exercise group with ultrasound (n=15). The interventions were administered five times a week for three weeks. The entire process was performed from November 2022 to April 2023. Outcome measure: The navicular drop test (NDT) was used to measure the degree of foot pronation, the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) was employed to assess pain levels, and the Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ) was utilized to evaluate participants' quality of life. Results: The mean value of the jumping rope exercise group at the post-test was significantly higher than that of the short foot exercise group, with a p-value of <0.0001 Conclusion: Based on the findings, it can be concluded that jumping rope exercise with ultrasound therapy yields superior outcomes in managing Pes Planus compared to short foot exercise.
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NewsBot · Feb 28, 2024

This clinical trial has just been registered:
Effectiveness of Short-Foot Exercises in Water and on Land in Pes Planus

Pes planus is caused by the elongation of the intrinsic muscles in the medial arch of the foot, causing the arch to approach the ground or the sole of the foot to touch the ground completely.
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NewsBot · Apr 24, 2024

Effect of short foot exercise on lower-limb motor control function during single-leg standing in university students with flatfoot: A randomized controlled trial
Misaki Suzuki et al
Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies; Volume 39, July 2024, Pages 293-298

Introduction
Intrinsic foot muscles (IFMs) play an important role in lower-limb motor control, including biomechanics and neuromuscular control function. Short foot exercise (SFE) and toe curl exercise (TC) are methods used to train the IFMs, but their effect on lower-limb motor control has not been reported in previous studies. This study evaluated the effects of SFE and TC on lower-limb motor control function during single-leg standing (SLS).

Trial design
Randomized control trial.

Method
Thirty-six participants with flatfoot were randomly assigned to the SFE or TC group and performed exercise for 8 weeks. The assessment items were navicular drop test, toe grip strength (TGS), plantar sensation, and SLS. In the SLS assessment, we measured the mean center of pressure (COP) amplitude in the anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) directions, onset time of gluteus maximus (G. max) and gluteus medius (G. med), angle of forefoot/hindfoot protonation and hip adduction, and lateral pelvic shift. Mixed-model repeated-measures analysis of variance and Bonferroni corrections were performed in statistical analysis.

Results
The SFE group showed significant differences between pre- and post-intervention for TGS (p < 0.001), COP ML (p = 0.039), and onset times of G. max (p = 0.015), and G. med (p < 0.001). The TC group showed no significant differences in all assessment items.

Conclusion
Our finding suggests that SFE contributes to lower neuromuscular control function in people with flatfoot.
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NewsBot · May 21, 2024

Comparison of Foot Muscle Activity During Short Foot and Toe Spread-out Exercises in Different Weight Bearing Conditions in Individuals With Pes Planus
( Hyun-ji Lee ) , ( Sae-hwa Kim ) , ( Seung-min Baik ) , ( Heon-seock Cynn )
Source

Background: Individuals with pes planus tend to overuse the extrinsic foot muscles, such as the tibialis anterior (TA) and peroneus longus (PL), to compensate for the weakened intrinsic foot muscles, such as the abductor hallucis (AbdH). Furthermore, differences in weight-bearing can affect the activity of muscles in both the intrinsic and extrinsic foot muscles. To date, no study has compared the effects of the short foot exercise (SFE) and toe spread-out exercise (TSO) on intrinsic and extrinsic foot muscle activity and the corresponding ratios in different weight-bearing positions. Objects: To compare the effects of the SFE and TSO on AbdH, TA, and PL activity and the AbdH/TA and AbdH/PL activity ratios in the sitting and standing positions in individuals with pes planus. Methods: Twenty participants with pes planus were recruited. Surface electromyography was used to assess the amplitudes of AbdH, TA, and PL activity. Participants performed both exercises while adopting both the sitting and standing positions. Results: No significant interaction between exercise and position was found regarding the activity of any muscle or ratio of the activity, except for PL activity. We observed a significant increase in AbdH activity during the TSO compared to the SFE, and no significant difference in TA and PL activity between the two exercises. AbdH, TA, and PL activity were significantly higher in the standing position than in the sitting position. Furthermore, the AbdH/PL activity ratio significantly increased in the sitting position, although there was a significant increase in AbdH activity in the standing position. Conclusion: In individuals with pes planus, we recommend performing the TSO in the sitting position, which may increase the activity of the AbdH while concurrently decreasing the activity of the TA and PL, thus strengthening the AbdH.
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NewsBot · Jun 15, 2024

A comparison of abductor hallucis muscle activation and medial longitudinal arch angle during nine different foot exercises
Mai Katakura et al
Gait & Posture; 12 June 2024

Highlights
•Abductor hallicus longus activated in single leg swing without lengthy practice
•The minimum longitudinal arch angle was larger in standing than in sitting
•Standing single leg swing may be effective exercise for foot intrinsic muscles
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Background
Intrinsic foot muscles are known to support the medial longitudinal arch (MLA) and stabilize the foot, and they are activated with weight bearing and increased postural demand. Various types of intrinsic foot muscle training have been reported, but one of the most useful of these, the short foot exercise, is challenging to perform effectively and requires practice, making it difficult to implement in ordinary clinical settings.

Research question
What are the differences in abductor hallucis longus (ABH) muscle activity and MLA angle during intrinsic foot muscle exercises that employ weight bearing and balancing conditions when they are performed with minimal practice?

Methods
Sixteen healthy volunteers performed nine different intrinsic foot muscle exercises, practiced once or twice. The exercises consisted of toe curl, short foot without pushing, short foot with pushing and toe spread exercises in sitting and standing positions, and single leg swing in a standing position. Each exercise was performed three times for five seconds. The activities of the ABH muscles were measured using surface electromyographic (EMG) sensors and the MLA angles during the exercises were captured using an optical motion tracking system. The integrals of the ABH EMG signals were calculated.

Results
Differences in the integral and maximum of the ABH EMG signal were found between the exercises (p < 0.001). Post-hoc pair-wise analysis revealed that the EMG activity was larger during the swing exercise than in exercises other than toe spread, both in sitting and standing positions, and short foot exercise with pushing while standing. The minimum MLA angle during each exercise was smaller for the toe spread exercise in a sitting position than other exercises (p < 0.023).

Significance
A single leg swing exercise may be effective for self-exercise of intrinsic foot muscles, particularly when intensive supervised physiotherapy is not possible.
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scotfoot · Jun 16, 2024

NewsBot said: ↑

A comparison of abductor hallucis muscle activation and medial longitudinal arch angle during nine different foot exercises
Mai Katakura et al
Gait & Posture; 12 June 2024
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Activating the abductor hallucis.
The image below shows doming with an inelastic strap across the top of the foot. If you are not fatiguing the muscle then you are not effectively targeting it.

How long would you have to stand and swing your free leg backwards and forwards before you felt the "muscle burn" under the standing foot? I think you would find other muscles fatiguing long before the abductor hallucis.

Footballers take note though. The intrinsics in the standing foot are clearly an important part of providing a stable base for accurate shooting/passing.

NewsBot · Jul 30, 2024

Does Short Foot Exercise Combined with Breathing Exercise Increase Muscular Activity in Individuals with Pes Planus?
Tezel Yıldırım Şahan et al
J Am Podiatr Med Assoc. 2024 May-Jun;114(3):22-229.

Background: Improvements in muscle oxygenation and exercise posture can significantly impact muscle contraction. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of combined breathing and exercise posture (sitting or standing) on the muscle activity of the foot and ankle during short foot exercises (SFE) in individuals with pes planus.

Methods: The study included 15 subjects aged 21.53 ± 1.06 years, diagnosed with pes planus. Short foot exercises were performed with and without breathing exercises (BE) in sitting and standing positions. Surface electromyography was used to measure the activity of the tibialis anterior (TA), peroneus longus (PL), and abductor hallucis longus (ABDH) muscles during four different SFE. Four-way repeated analyses of variance were used to assess the addition of BE to SFE and muscle activities of the foot and ankle.

Results: Muscle activity in the TA, PL, and ABDH was significantly higher in the SFE with BE than without BE in the standing position than in the sitting position. The SFE performed with BE when standing significantly increased the ABDH and ankle muscle activity compared to without BE.

Conclusions: SFE with BE may represent a new strengthening program for ABDH and PL foot muscles in rehabilitation programs for individuals with pes planus.
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NewsBot · Oct 4, 2024

Local and non-local effects (on the posterior chain) of four weeks of foot exercises: a randomized controlled trial
Anna Gabriel et al
Sci Rep. 2024 Sep 23;14(1):22000

This study investigated the local, remote, and contralateral effects of a four-week intrinsic foot muscle exercise intervention in recreationally active participants on foot parameters, flexibility, and performance of the posterior chain (PC). Twenty-eight healthy participants (12f, 16m) were randomly assigned to a control group or performed 2 × 6 min of foot exercises twice daily unilaterally at least five days/week for four weeks. At baseline (M1), after the intervention (M2), and after a four-week wash-out period (M3), we assessed bilateral Foot Posture Index-6, medial longitudinal arch mobility, single-leg stance balance, range of motion (ROM) (first metatarsophalangeal joint and ankle), and flexibility and performance of the PC. The FPI-6 score changes over time differed significantly between groups for both legs, improving by 26% in the trained- (p < .001) and 11% in the untrained leg (p = .02) in the intervention group from M1 to M2. Improvements were maintained at M3 for the trained leg (p = .02). Ankle range of motion and balance of the trained leg improved from M1 to M2, yet only became significant at M3 (ROM: p = .02; balance: p = .007). The other parameters did not change significantly. A four-week foot exercise intervention might have local but no remote effects in healthy young adults
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NewsBot · Oct 6, 2024

Effectiveness of jumping rope combined with short foot exercise on
the medial longitudinal arch in a patient with flat foot: A case report
Chaithanya et al
Journal of Sports and Rehabilitation Sciences Volume 1, Issue 1, 2024

A flat foot is a deformity that leads to the collapse of the medial longitudinal arch. Flat
foot may be congenital or acquired, which can be treated with various exercises; short
foot exercise is where the head of the first metatarsal is pulled towards the heel without
flexion of the toes; jumping rope helps in eccentric and concentric muscle action of
the foot. The study aims to determine the effectiveness of jumping rope and short foot
exercises on the medial longitudinal arch of a 24-year-old female patient with a flat
foot. The pre-treatment assessment was done using a navicular drop test, and treatment
was given for 20 minutes daily for six weeks; following the intervention, jumping
rope and short foot exercises effectively improved the medial longitudinal arch.
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NewsBot · Oct 8, 2024

Comparing the efficacy of exercise therapy on adult flexible flatfoot individuals through a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Yuqing Jia, Xue Sai & Enming Zhang
Scientific Reports volume 14, Article number: 21186 (2024)

The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of different exercise interventions for adult flexible flatfoot. Nine databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), SCOPUS, PRDro, Google Scholar, China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI) and Wanfang data) were systematically searched from their inception until February 2024. The search resulted in 2112 records, with 11 studies included. All networks revealed low heterogeneity and non-significant inconsistency (I2 ≤ 25.0%). Three network plots were formed for navicular drop. Firstly, compared with the control group, strengthening the posterior tibial muscle + stretching the iliopsoas muscle + TCE (MD: 3.32, 95% CI: 1.78, 4.89), PNF (MD: 1.81, 95%CI: -0.05, 3.70), SFE (MD: 1.23, 95%CI: 1.02, 1.44) all showed better effects. And strengthening the posterior tibial muscle + stretching the iliopsoas muscle + TCE exercise is considered to be the most effective intervention, with SUCRA of 0.97. Secondly, compared with the control group, hip-focused neuromuscular exercise (MD: 6.22, 95% CI: -1.69, 14.12), SFE with EMG biofeedback (MD: -0.81, 95%CI: -1.59, 3.21) all showed better effects. And hip-focused neuromuscular exercise is considered to be the most effective intervention, with SUCRA of 0.92. Thirdly, the internal foot muscle training combined with gluteus muscle strengthening is significantly better than the other two groups, with SUCRA of 0.99. For the foot posture index, comprehensive reinforcement (MD: 1.95, 95% CI − 0.19, 4.03) showed better effects compared with the control group. In the probability ranking table, comprehensive reinforcement is significantly better than the other two groups, with SUCRA of 0.98. For the foot function index, orthoses wear + stretching + eccentric progressive resistive exercise of tibialis posterior is significantly better than the other two groups, with SUCRA of 0.92. In conclusion, various exercise therapies improve the arch shape and function of patients with flexible flatfoot, particularly hip muscle and lower limb overall muscle training.
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NewsBot · Oct 23, 2024

Investigating the simultaneous effect of short foot corrective exercise and kinesio tape on the medial longitudinal arch of children and adolescents with flexible flat foot
farzad jafari Rashtabadi et al
Source

Flat foot is a condition in which the height of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot is reduced or completely lost. Flat foot can be flexible or hard, and their prevalence in children has been reported. The purpose of this research was to investigate the simultaneous effect of six weeks of short-foot correction exercise and kinesio tape on the medial longitudinal arch of children and adolescents with flexible flat foot. In this research، 36 children and adolescents aged 8 to 12 years were randomly divided into two experimental groups (18 subjects) and a control group (18 subjects). The short-foot exercise protocol and kinesio tape were implemented for six weeks (three sessions each week), and the control group did not receive any program. After collecting the demographic information of the subjects, the amount of navicular loss and the proprioceptive performance index foot were measured before and after six weeks of short foot and kinesio tape exercises. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 22), and to measure the difference between two groups with pre-test control, the covariance analysis method was used at the significance level (0.05). The results of this research showed that the simultaneous use of short foot exercise and kinesio tape is effective on the medial longitudinal arch of children with flat foot. Based on the findings of the research, the simultaneous use of short foot exercise and kinesio tape can be a suitable-proposed method for correcting flat foot.
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NewsBot · Nov 27, 2024

The effects of combined exercises, short foot exercises, and short foot exercises with isometric hip abduction on navicular drop, static parameters, and postural sway in women with flat foot: A randomized trial
Aftab Zarali, Zahra Raeisi & Abolfazl Aminmahalati
BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation

Background
Recent research has found that strengthening hip joint stability can considerably affect foot mechanics. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of short foot exercises (SFEs), combined exercises (CEs), and SFEs with isometric hip abduction (IHA) on navicular drop (ND), static parameters (SP), and postural sway in women with flat foot (FF).

Methods
This study recruited 45 women with flexible FF. The participants were divided into three groups: the CEs group, who performed a series of strengthening, stretching, and balancing exercises, the SFEs group, and the SFEs with IHA group. The groups carried out their assigned regimens daily for six weeks. ND, SP, and postural sway (center of pressure (CoP) parameters) were measured using the ND test and pedoscan device. The data was analysed using a repeated-measures ANOVA statistical test (p≤0.05).

Results
The results showed that all three groups decreased in ND, surface, and foot rotation in the post-test compared to the pre-test (P < 0.05). No difference was observed in the maximum pressure (P = 0.616) and anteroposterior fluctuations (P = 0.065) of the CEs group. Both SFEs and SFEs with IHA groups showed a reduction in all CoP parameters. When comparing the ND (P = 0.22) and mediolateral sway (P = 0.035) of the SFEs with IHA group, a significant difference was observed compared to the CEs group. Additionally, the SFEs with IHA group had a higher percentage of changes in all variables compared to the other two groups.

Conclusions
SFEs with IHA appear more effective than other training methods in reducing ND and decreasing CoP oscillations and stance parameters. Future studies should investigate the long-term effect of this exercise protocol.
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NewsBot · Dec 3, 2024

A comparison of kinematic and kinetic characteristics of intrinsic flexor muscles of the foot exercises: Effect on the medial longitudinal arch of the foot
Yasuyuki Umezaki, Daichi Kawamura, et al
Source

Background
Standing toe curl (STC) has an immediate effect on muscle activity, but the kinematics of the exercise and its effect on the medial longitudinal arch of the foot are unknown.
Objective
The purpose of this study was to examine the differences in kinematic and kinetic changes during toe flexion while performing towel curl (TC) in a standing position and STC.
Methods
Ten healthy adults with normal feet (18 limbs) participated in this study. Using a three-dimensional motion analysis system, we calculated the toe flexion angle, medial longitudinal arch (MLA) angle, MLA height, MLA length, ankle joint angle, center of foot pressure, and center position of the hip joint during toe flexion using TC and STC exercises.
Results
The TC exercise resulted in a decrease in the MLA due to the backward shift in the center of pressure and ankle dorsiflexion. On the other hand, STC did not demonstrate any significant difference in the position of the center of pressure or ankle joint angle, allowing the toes to flex while maintaining a standing posture and resulting in an increase in the MLA.
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NewsBot · Dec 20, 2024

The effect of comprehensive and local corrective exercises on foot posture index in individuals with flexible flat foot: a randomized controlled trial
Afshin Moghadasi
Source

Strengthening the intrinsic foot muscles is effective in controlling pronation. However, the effects of strengthening other muscle groups remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of comprehensive and local corrective exercises on foot posture index (FPI) in people with flexible flat foot. Forty-four students referring to Neshat corrective exercises center in Ilam city with a foot posture index score between 6 and 12 were selected as a statistical sample and stratified randomly divided into four groups of intrinsic exercises, intrinsic + extrinsic exercises, comprehensive corrective exercises (CCE) and control. The FPI was measured in the pre-test, at the end of the sixth week and at the end of the twelfth week. The mixed model analysis of variance test was used to analyze the data. The results showed that there was a significant decrease in the FPI in the exercise groups compared to the control group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the intrinsic and intrinsic + extrinsic groups in the right (P=0.980) and left (P=0.965) foots. FPI in the CCE group showed a significant decrease compared to all groups (P<0.05). CCE, considering the principle of chain reactions of the human body and focusing on the activation of all the distal and proximal muscles effective in misalignment, is more effective than local exercises in correcting the flatness of a flexible foot.
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NewsBot · May 7, 2025

Exercise Modalities for Improving Frontal Plane Knee and Foot Posture in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review
Gülsüm Mandir Cömert, Markus Gruber
Sports (Basel). 2025 Feb 11;13(2):52.

Lower extremity misalignments increase the risk of chronic overload and acute injuries during sports and daily activities. Medial positioning of the knee and foot in the frontal plane is one of the key biomechanical risk factors associated with lower extremity injuries and pain. Different exercise interventions have been implemented to counteract misalignments. However, most studies have been conducted on clinical populations. Therefore, in this review, we aimed to assess the preventive effects of exercise interventions on frontal plane knee and foot posture in healthy individuals. Electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, PEDro) were systematically searched for original articles published between 2008 and 2024. This review included clinical trials on healthy adults (18-45 years) with or without lower extremity biomechanical misalignments, examining the effects of exercise interventions alone on knee and foot frontal plane biomechanics. Eligible studies reported at least one relevant frontal plane foot and knee biomechanical measure, such as knee valgus/abduction, medial knee displacement, foot pronation/eversion, or navicular drop. Studies involving non-exercise interventions, single-session protocols, and participants with neurological or spinal disorders, pain, or injury were excluded. A total of 35 articles with 1095 participants were included in this review. A total of 20 studies included individuals without a biomechanical misalignment, and 15 studies focused on individuals with a biomechanical misalignment. Mean values, standard deviations, and p-values were extracted from the included studies. Effect sizes and confidence intervals were then calculated to provide a quantitative presentation of the data. In conclusion, in healthy individuals without biomechanical misalignment, technique training and core muscles strengthening were most effective for improving knee valgus. Hip, core, and foot muscle strengthening reduced foot pronation in those with pronated feet, while short foot exercises improved foot positioning in individuals with flat feet. Combining lower extremity strengthening with knee position control training may reduce knee valgus in individuals with increased knee valgus.
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scotfoot · May 8, 2025

The problem with the short foot exercise is that it is an isometric exercise , that is one where the muscle is held in a contracted state for a period of time and then relaxed.

Generally, isometric exercises can build strength in a given position but not a full range of motion for the joint /joints concerned.

In the foot, some intrinsic foot muscles have more rapid contraction times than others. For example, the flexor digitorum brevis has a comparatively rapid rate of contraction. This muscle was studied in 2012 by Tosvic et al . They concluded :

"The results suggest that the architecture and contraction time of the FDB reflect its unique direct contribution, through toe flexion, to postural stability and the rapid development of ground reaction forces during forceful activities such as running and jumping. "

If you want to improve muscle function within the foot it would probably be a good idea to include eccentric and concentric exercises. For example, the sort of exercises proposed at Brigham Young University many years ago.

It's a sobering thought that using isometric exercises to strengthen the toe flexors may actually have far less impact than rapid concentric training with regard to improving agility and perhaps even balance.

samuelfromhodandhod · May 8, 2025

scotfoot said: ↑

The problem with the short foot exercise is that it is an isometric exercise , that is one where the muscle is held in a contracted state for a period of time and then relaxed.

Generally, isometric exercises can build strength in a given position but not a full range of motion for the joint /joints concerned.

In the foot, some intrinsic foot muscles have more rapid contraction times than others. For example, the flexor digitorum brevis has a comparatively rapid rate of contraction. This muscle was studied in 2012 by Tosvic et al . They concluded :

"The results suggest that the architecture and contraction time of the FDB reflect its unique direct contribution, through toe flexion, to postural stability and the rapid development of ground reaction forces during forceful activities such as running and jumping. "

If you want to improve muscle function within the foot it would probably be a good idea to include eccentric and concentric exercises. For example, the sort of exercises proposed at Brigham Young University many years ago.

It's a sobering thought that using isometric exercises to strengthen the toe flexors may actually have far less impact than rapid concentric training with regard to improving agility and perhaps even balance.
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At Hod and Hod we've developed a way to exercise the foot muscles through eccentric and concentric motion so it is possible and quite easy with our product.

NewsBot · May 25, 2025

Three-dimensional foot-ankle exercise versus clam exercise in addition to short-foot exercise in individuals with flexible flatfoot: a randomized controlled trial
Dilek Hande Esen et al
Physiother Theory Pract 2025 Apr 17:1-12

Background: Three-Dimensional (3D) foot-ankle exercise and clam exercise have been used to improve foot posture in flatfoot. However, studies on this topic are limited, and more supporting evidence is needed to investigate the benefits of these exercises on flatfoot.

Purpose: To compare the effects of 3D foot-ankle and clam exercise in addition to Short-Foot exercise on navicular drop, foot posture and structure in individuals with flexible flatfoot.

Methods: Single-blind, randomized controlled trial. Fifty-six participants were divided into Foot Exercise Group (FEG), Hip Exercise Group (HEG), and a Control Group (CG). FEG performed 3D foot-ankle+Short-Foot exercise. HEG performed clam+Short-Foot exercise. CG performed only Short-Foot exercise. The Navicular Drop Test (NDT), Foot Posture Index-6 (FPI-6), Clarke's Angle (CA), Staheli Index (SI), Wejsflog Index, hallux valgus angle, and varus deformity angle of the fifth toe were assessed pre-and post-intervention (six week later).

Results: Post-intervention, NDT, CA, and SI scores improved significantly more in FEG compared to other groups (p = <0.001, η2 = 0.425-0.802). FPI-6 score decreased similarly in FEG and HEG (p = .477), significantly more than in CG (p = <0.001, r = -0.692; p = <0.001, r= -0.560, respectively). CA and SI scores improved more in HEG than in CG (p = <0.001, r = -0.851; p = <0.001, r= -0.536, respectively).

Conclusion: The 3D foot-ankle and clam exercise may be an effective intervention that provides satisfactory functional results for navicular drop, foot pronation, and anthropometric properties of the foot in flexible flatfoot.
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NewsBot · Jun 16, 2025

The Influence of Short Foot Exercise Compared to Toe Curl Exercise or No Intervention on the Medial Longitudinal Arch of the Foot in Young Adults With Pes Planus: A Meta-Analysis
Slinkard, Nicholas.
California State University, Fresno ProQuest Dissertations & Theses, 2025. 31993726.

Background: This meta-analysis compared interventions for pes planus in
young adults to find the most effective, quick, accurate, and cost-efficient method.
It hypothesized that short foot exercise (SFE) is more effective than toe curl
exercise (TCE) or no exercise in improving the medial longitudinal arch (MLA) of
the foot. Methods: Eligible studies included either randomized controlled trials or
pre- and post-measurements of within-group comparisons without a control group,
as well as research studies with a PEDro score of 6 or higher. The main
interventions had to involve either the SFE or the TCE compared to each other or
to other treatments. The results of this meta-analysis were generated using a
random effects model and were calculated and presented graphically using forest
plots. Results: 12 studies were selected for inclusion in the meta-analysis based on
eligibility criteria within the PICO parameters. These studies utilized either the
SFE or TCE protocol and compared them to a control group or alternative
interventions. The outcomes were measured using the navicular drop test (NDT),
foot posture index (FPI), or ultrasound. The SFE was most effective when
performed 3 times a week or more, for 3 sets or more, for 10 repetitions or more,
with a 5-10 second isometric contraction per repetition, and for 5 weeks or more.
Conclusion: SFE is the most effective intervention for increasing the crosssectional area (CSA) of intrinsic foot muscles (IFM) and improving MLA support
in treating asymptomatic pes planus in young adults.
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Effects of the Short Foot Exercise

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The Short-Term Effects of Treating Plantar Fasciitis With a Temporary Custom Foot Orthosis and Stret

Immediate and Short-Term Effects of Short- and Long-Duration Isometric Contractions in Patellar Tend

Effects of short or long warm-up on running performance.

Effects of Limb Length Discrepancy on Spinal Motion During Gait

Structural Effects in Foot Soft Tissues Depending on the Mechanical Contact Between Joints

Effects of Biomimetic Shoes on Healthy Young Children's Gait

Effects of Diuretics on Foot Edema in Patients with Cancer

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Effects of the Short Foot Exercise

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scotfoot Well-Known Member

samuelfromhodandhod Welcome New Poster

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The Short-Term Effects of Treating Plantar Fasciitis With a Temporary Custom Foot Orthosis and Stret

Immediate and Short-Term Effects of Short- and Long-Duration Isometric Contractions in Patellar Tend

Effects of short or long warm-up on running performance.

Effects of Limb Length Discrepancy on Spinal Motion During Gait

Structural Effects in Foot Soft Tissues Depending on the Mechanical Contact Between Joints

Effects of Biomimetic Shoes on Healthy Young Children's Gait

Effects of Diuretics on Foot Edema in Patients with Cancer

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