Effect of augmented low-dye taping and exercise on plantar pressure, navicular drop and foot posture in pes planus

Effect of Augmented Low-Dye Taping and Exercise on Plantar Pressure, Navicular Drop and Foot Posture in Pes Planus Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the effects of exercise training performed together with ALD taping in individuals with bilateral pes planus. Material and method: A randomized controlled experimental study included 34 individuals aged 18-25. Individuals were assigned to either the taping and exercise group or the exercise group. The groups performed the same exercise protocol for 8 weeks, three days a week. Individuals in both groups first performed exercises performed with a resistance band. Then, individuals in the taping and exercise group had ALD taping applied to both feet. Individuals in this group, unlike the exercise group, performed the remaining exercises in the exercise protocol while the tape was on the skin. Evaluations: NDT, API-6 and pedobarography were performed before treatment, at 8 and 12 weeks. Results: API and NDT values of the right and left feet decreased significantly in both groups at 8th and 12th weeks compared to pre-treatment (p<0.05). In both groups, the main effect of time was found to be significant in some parameters of static and dynamic plantar pressure distribution at 8th and 12th weeks compared to pre-treatment: toes, heel, heel medial, heel lateral, big toe, midfoot, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th metatarsals, 4th and 5th toes (p<0.05). Conclusion: Exercise training combined with ALD taping produced similar results to standard exercise training. Key words: Exercise, Flatfoot, Plantar Pressure, Pronation, Taping