Correlation of physical activity and fitness with arches of the foot in children

Study aim: Physical activity is crucial for a child’s development, as well as for the development of the foot. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation of the level of physical activity and physical fitness with the arches of the foot in children in non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing conditions.

Material and methods: The study population consisted of 92 children aged 10 to 14 years. We assessed their physical fitness with a modified Zuchora test. The modification consisted in choosing three (speed, jumping ability, and flexibility) out of a total of six trials. To assess the physical activity, we used a screening test - the anonymous Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity questionnaire. To analyze the arches of the foot, we used computer equipment based on the Moiré projection method.

Results: Pearson’s chi-squared test did not reveal any significant correlation between physical activity, physical fitness, and longitudinal and transversal arches in children. The percentage of normal and high foot arches increased with increasing levels of physical activity and physical fitness. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test analysis confirmed a statistically significant difference (with p < 0.001) in the longitudinal and transversal arches in measurements in non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing conditions.

Conclusions: 1. In the examined group, there were functional lateral and longitudinal flat feet. 2. A lowered longitudinal arch foot might reduce physical activity and fitness in adolescents.