Dynamic and Static Balance in Persons with Different Arch Height and Impacts of an Arch Support

Abstract

The dynamic and static balance performance in young persons with three different arch heights and the effects of arch support on balance were investigated. A total of 12 young adults with comparable age were recruited intentionally and they were divided into low arch height, normal arch and high arch groups. The gender ratio in each group was the same. Arch support was customized fabricated for each participant. Their dynamic and static balance were measured with and without arch support. No significant difference among groups in balance performance was found in all conditions except in right foot standing with eyes closed condition. Arch support might improve balance during tasks with high balance control demanding. The casual relationship between low arch height in the foot and accumulate musculoskeletal discomfort in the lower extremity and the trunk due to abnormal loading from daily standing and walking needs further investigation.