Effects of Arch Support Pads and Insoles on Gait Parameters and Plantar Mechanics During Running in Adults with Flatfoot

Flatfoot is a common condition that affects gait and causes discomfort during high-load conditions such as running. it is imperative to identify the most effective treatments. Our study investigated the effects of arch support pads and insoles on gait parameters and plantar mechanics during running in adults with flatfoot. Twenty female rearfoot-strike runners with flat feet participated in a running task on the Zebris Medical GmbH treadmill at a speed of 3.3 ± 5% m/s. Gait data were collected under three conditions: shoes (A), shoes with pads (B), and shoes with insoles (C). One-way repeated measures ANOV A was used to analyze gait parameters during the stance phase. Compared with A, both Band C can reduce the foot rotation angle, and the effect of C was more obvious. Compared with A and C, the maximum force of the forefoot in condition B was significantly increased, and the maximum force of the forefoot in condition C was greater than that in condition A. Compared with A, the maximum pressure of the forefoot under Band C increased significantly, and the maximum force and pressure of the midfoot decreased significantly. Both arch support pads and insoles can effectively enhance foot stability and reduce midfoot pressure and pressure during running. Insole was better than pad in enhancing foot stability, but pad helped achieve better propulsion. These findings provided valuable insights into the selection of interventions when running in patients with flat feet.