The relationship between static and dynamic foot posture and running biomechanics: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Medial longitudinal arch characteristics are thought to be a contributing factor to lower limb running injuries. Running biomechanics associated with different foot types have been proposed as one of the potential underlying mechanisms. However, no systematic review has investigated this relationship.

Research question: The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic literature search and synthesize the evidence about the relationship between foot posture and running biomechanics.

Methods: For this systematic review and meta-analysis different electronic databases (Pubmed, Web of Science, Cochrane, SportDiscus) were searched to identify studies investigating the relationship between medial longitudinal arch characteristics and running biomechanics. After identification of relevant articles, two independent researchers determined the risk of bias of included studies. For homogenous outcomes, data pooling and meta-analysis (random effects model) was performed, and levels of evidence determined.

Results: Of the 4088 studies initially identified, a total of 25 studies were included in the qualitative review and seven in the quantitative analysis. Most studies had moderate and three studies a low risk of bias. Moderate evidence was found for a relationship between foot posture and subtalar joint kinematics (small pooled effects: -0.59; 95%CI -1.14 to - 0.003) and leg stiffness (small pooled effect: 0.59; 95%CI 0.18 to 0.99). Limited or very limited evidence was found for a relationship with forefoot kinematics, tibial/leg rotation, tibial acceleration/shock, plantar pressure distribution, plantar fascia tension and ankle kinetics as well as an interaction of foot type and footwear regarding tibial rotation.

Significance: While there is evidence for an association between foot posture and subtalar joint kinematics and leg stiffness, no clear relationship was found for other biomechanical outcomes. Since a comprehensive meta-analysis was limited by the heterogeneity of included studies future research would benefit from consensus in foot assessment and more homogenous study designs.

Keywords: Ankle; Biomechanics; Foot; Foot arch; Gait analysis; Kinematics; Kinetics; Leg stiffness; Loading rates; Medial longitudinal arch; Running; Subtalar joint.