The Effectiveness of Custom Insoles on the Agility of Children Aged 8–12 Years with Flat Feet

Background: Agility is the ability to change direction and body position quickly, accurately, and in a controlled manner without losing balance. This ability is crucial for children aged 10–12 years, as it plays a role in daily activities, games, and sports. Agility is influenced by various factors, including balance, coordination, muscle strength, joint stability, and proprioception. In children with flat feet, these factors can be compromised due to changes in foot structure and function. One intervention used to address the biomechanical issues associated with flat feet is the use of custom insoles. Custom insoles are foot orthoses specifically designed to match the shape and characteristics of an individual's foot. These insoles function by supporting the medial arch, correcting lower-extremity alignment, reducing excessive pronation, and improving pressure distribution across the sole of the foot. Research objective: To determine the effectiveness of custom insoles on the agility of children aged 10–12 years with flat feet. The research hypothesis posits that the use of custom insoles is effective in improving agility in children aged 10–12 years with flat feet. Research methodology: This study employed a quantitative approach using a quasi-experimental, one-group pretest-posttest design. It examined the cause-and-effect relationship using a single sample group without a control group. Measurements involved a pretest, the application of the intervention, and a posttest to assess effectiveness; the study included 20 respondents selected via purposive sampling. Agility was measured using the Edgren Side Step Test (ESST) conducted prior to the intervention and after one month of use. Results were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test. Results and discussion: The Wilcoxon test results indicated a significant difference between pre-test and post-test agility scores following the use of custom insoles in children aged 8–12 years with flat feet (Z = -2.678; p = 0.007). The results indicate that the use of custom insoles is effective in improving agility in children with flat feet. In addition to being statistically significant, the effect size of r = 0.60 falls into the "large effect" category, demonstrating that the intervention has a strong impact on agility improvement. Conclusion: The use of custom insoles improves agility in children aged 8–12 years with flat feet.