Comparative Study of Plantar Load and Foot Posture Characteristics in Male Elite Squash Players and Non-Athletes in Taiwan

BACKGROUND Given the limited research on plantar load distribution (PLD) and foot posture in squash players in recent years, this study aimed to investigate the foot characteristics of elite squash players undergoing extensive training and competition. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study compared PLD, foot arch index (FAI), center of gravity, and rearfoot posture between 26 elite Taiwanese squash players and 33 age-matched college students, using the JC Mat optical plantar pressure analyzer (View Grand International Co, Ltd, Taiwan) and calcaneal angle measurements. RESULTS There were no significant differences in FAI between groups. Squash players exhibited symmetrical increases in PLD across the medial metatarsals (left: 23.68%±7.74%, P=0.005; right: 21.64%±7.73%, P=0.040) and lateral longitudinal arches (left: 20.49%±9.11%, P=0.000; right: 23.20%±7.33%, P=0.047), with relative reductions at the lateral metatarsals and heels. The center of gravity of their feet was symmetrical. Although the rearfoot angles were neutral (left: 2.63°±3.42°, P=0.000; right: 2.57°±3.46°, P=0.000), valgus angles of both feet were significantly greater than that of the controls. CONCLUSIONS Elite squash players in this study presented normal and symmetrical foot posture, with increased PLD across forefoot and midfoot, and exhibited well-balanced abilities. These findings highlight distinct foot patterns in squash compared with other racquet sports, providing a foundation for further research on shared biomechanical impacts and guidance for the development of squash-specific footwear designed to optimize load distribution and reduce injury risks.