Changes in Lumbar Lordotic Curvature in Individuals with Asymptomatic Flexible Pes Planus Using Different Taping Methods

Purpose: Structural changes in the foot, particularly pes planus, lead to internal rotation of the tibia and femur, subsequently increasing pelvic anteversion.This biomechanical adaptation in the pelvis and lower extremities affects the lumbar spine, resulting in an increase in lumbar lordotic curvature.This study aimed to analyze whether lumbar spinal alignment changes occur in asymptomatic flexible pes planus and to evaluate the corrective effects of low-Dye taping and modified Mulligan taping, which are commonly used in the treatment of flexible pes planus, by examining their potential to induce changes in lumbar lordotic curvature.Methods: This study was conducted with 30 voluntarily participating individuals who exhibited bilateral flexible pes planus.Improvement in flexible pes planus following taping application was assessed using the navicular drop test, while changes in lumbar lordotic curvature were analyzed using a flexible curve ruler.The corrective effects of each taping method on pes planus and the degree of lumbar lordotic curvature alteration were examined through one-way repeated measures ANOVA and contrast tests.Results: Application of low-Dye taping and modified Mulligan taping resulted in a significant increase in the height of the navicular tuberosity compared to the pre-taping condition.However, no significant abnormality in lumbar lordotic curvature was observed in individuals with asymptomatic flexible pes planus, and neither taping intervention induced a significant change in lumbar lordotic curvature. Conclusion:In asymptomatic flexible pes planus, both low-Dye taping and modified Mulligan taping were effective in correcting flexible pes planus.However, neither intervention induced significant changes in lumbar lordotic curvature.