Examine Foot Plantar Pressure and Posture Balance in Young Women with Elevated BMI

An increased BMI is linked to foot disorders and neuromuscular diseases, and its effect on plantar pressure parameters in young female adults has been less explored. The objective of this research is to investigate the impact of overweight (BMI>25) in young female adults using static protocols. Thirteen overweight (BMI > 25, 27.93 ± 3.06) and thirteen control young adults (BMI < 25, 21.42 ± 2.16), aged 18-21 years, were requested to adhere to static plantar pressure protocols. Data on peak plantar pressure (PPP), weight distribution (forefoot, hindfoot), foot width (forefoot, hindfoot), and foot angle (forefoot, hindfoot) were recorded. A T-test was used to analyze data normality. The overweight group showed higher peak plantar pressure values for the hindfoot region compared to the forefoot. A significant difference was observed between PPP values and foot contact area. A significant left foot prevalence over the right foot was reported for young female adults. Furthermore, a significant correlation revealed that the overweight group could change the regularity of the PPP series. From these results, it can be concluded that excess weight affects foot structure and foot sensitivity, and it is recommended to monitor plantar parameters on a daily basis using wearable AI systems.