로우다이테이핑 적용이 유연성 편평족을 가진 성인의 균형과 아치높이, 보행 시 근활성도에 미치는 즉각적 효과

Abstract

Background: Flexible flatfoot is characterized by a reduced medial longitudinal arch and can lead to altered biomechanics, decreased postural stability, and compensatory muscle activity during gait. Low-Dye taping (LDT) has been widely used in clinical practice to provide structural support to the arch and to improve foot function. However, evidence regarding its immediate effects on balance, arch height, and foot intrinsic muscle activity during dynamic tasks remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the short-term effects of LDT compared to placebo taping and no taping in young adults with flexible flatfoot. Methods: Twelve adults diagnosed with flexible flatfoot participated in this randomized cross-over trial. Each participant underwent three testing conditions in random order: LDT, placebo taping, and no taping. Foot intrinsic muscle activity, specifically the abductor hallucis, was recorded using surface electromyography during walking. Postural stability was assessed with the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS), and arch height was evaluated via the Navicular Drop Test (NDT). Results: LDT application resulted in significantly improved balance performance compared to both placebo taping and no taping conditions. Additionally, the LDT condition demonstrated a smaller change in arch height during weight-bearing and a reduction in abductor hallucis muscle activation during gait, suggesting improved mechanical support and decreased compensatory muscle demand. Conclusion: The findings indicate that LDT provides immediate benefits in enhancing postural stability, maintaining arch structure, and optimizing intrinsic foot muscle activity in individuals with flexible flatfoot. These results support the clinical use of LDT as a simple, cost-effective intervention for functional improvement, particularly in activities requiring dynamic balance and sustained gait performance.