The effect of a pes planus-based corrective exercise program on knee symptomatology or knee pain

Abstract

Objectives: The primary aim of our study was to investigate the effect of a pes planus-based corrective exercise program on knee symptomatology or pain in individuals suffering from pes planus/foot hyperpronation in combination with non-traumatic knee pain. Secondary outcomes were the influence of age, gender, amount of knee pain, degree of foot pronation and therapy loyalty on the results of the primary outcome. Method: Twenty-eight volunteers met the inclusion- and exclusion criteria. These participants were randomly allocated to either exercise group or control group.Pre- and posttests were conducted to measure pre-posttest and between-group changes. The posttest took place after an eight-week pes planus-based corrective exercise program. Primary outcome measures were changes in foot posture and knee pain. The FPI-6 was used to assess foot posture. Knee pain and symptoms were assessed by using the KOOS and the Kujala. Results: Significant between-group differences were found for the Kujala (p = 0.0403), KoosPain (p = 0.0358), koosADL (p = 0.0066) and KoosSport/Rec (p = 0.0159) in favor of the exercise group. The FPI-6 didn't show any significant changes. Conclusion: A pes planus-based corrective exercise program could improve knee pain and functioning in individuals suffering from pes planus/hyperpronation in combination with non-traumatic knee pain. This kind of exercise program does not improve the static foot posture. Further research is needed.