Evaluation of balance and ankle proprioception in calcaneal spur patients

Background: A planter calcaneal spur (PCS) is an atypical osseous projection located at the inferior aspect of the calcaneus. Heel spurs can alter natural posture and may lead to complications such as back pain. Increased pain correlates with elevated proprioceptive inaccuracies and diminished balance and functional mobility.Purpose: To compare balance and proprioception between individuals with PCS and age-matched controls.Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted at Cairo University's Faculty of Physical Therapy involved 46 participants including 23 patients with PCS and 23 healthy individuals, Static balance was assessed through a single-leg stance balance test, dynamic balance was assessed through the Biodex balancing system, foot function was quantified by the foot pain index, and proprioception was tested with the ankle active reposition test employing a digital inclinometer.Results: There was a statistically significant change in static balance test during open eyes results across both groups (P= 0.005), which indicates that control group (group A) scored higher than experimental group(group B).There was a significant change in dynamic balance regarding overall stability index score, anteroposterior(AP) and mediolateral(ML) stability index score between both groups (P≤0.05), The experimental group scored higher than the control group. There was a significant change in pain, disability and activity limitation score among the two groups (P≤0.05), which indicates that experimental group scored higher than control group. Conclusion: According to the study, as compared to healthy subjects, patients with planter calcaneal spur had considerably worse static and dynamic balance, foot pain, and functional performance.Key words: balance,calcaneal spur,pain, proprioception.