CHANGES OF PLANTAR ARCH AFTER GLOBAL PHYSICAL EXERCISES IN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

The bipedal position acquired by mankind through evolution comes with a heavy price, such as overburdening of the spinal column and lower limbs, comparable difficulties in both breathing and blood transport to the brain. The loads imposed on musculoskeletal tissues during daily activities are modified by variations in joint mechanics, which increases the risk of orthopaedic dysfunctions. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of a 3-month global physical exercise programme using the Pilates method on the plantar arch. The participants were 18 high school students (11 female and 7 male) aged between 14 and 16 years. Methodology: To evaluate the plantar arch under static and dynamic conditions, the barosensitive BTS P-Walk platform (BTS, Italy) was used. The participants performed a group exercise programme over three months under the close supervision of the therapist; it consisted of 20 sessions carried out twice a week on average, with each session lasting 50 minutes. Initial and final results were compared and statistically interpreted (using the Paired Samples t Test and multiple statistical indicators). Conclusion: The study found numerical improvements in all four parameters, and for three of them, the change was statistically significant (P < 0.05 in the Paired Samples t Test). Statistically significant improvements were recorded for the left foot arch when evaluated in the standing position and for both feet during walking.