A Study to Analyze the Relationship between Body Mass Index, Core Endurance and Flat Foot among College Students

Background: Flat foot, a common deformity which is mostly asymptomatic in adults is characterized by collapse of longitudinal medial arch, abduction of the forefoot, internal rotation and calcaneal eversion. Core endurance and Body mass index are two important factors which affect the quality and performance of standing body balance and walking. Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate the relationship between Body Mass Index, Core endurance and Flat foot among college students. Materials & Methods: 85 students (32 males and 53 females) were selected for the study according to the selection criteria. Body mass index was calculated using Body Mass Index formulae, Core Endurance was assessed using Mc Gill’s core endurance test and Flat foot was assessed using Navicular Drop Test. The overall data was collected and taken for analysis. Results: The Pearson Correlation Coefficient is used to measure the strength of a linear association between two variables. The relationship between the flat foot and body mass index was correlated with an ‘r’ value of 0.53. The relationship between the flat foot and trunk flexor and extensor core endurance was correlated with an ‘r’ value of 0.32 and 0.008. Conclusion: There is a positive relationship between the flat foot and the body mass index, and also positive relationship between the flat foot and trunk flexor and extensor core endurance. Key words: Body Mass Index, Core endurance, Flat foot, Navicular drop test, McGill’s core endurance test.