Authors :
V. Rithik; Yogadharshan D.; T. Shahid Ul Hassan; Chitrarasu S.; Santhanalakshmi V.; Dr. D. P. Sivasakti Balan; R. J. Thayumanaswamy
Volume/Issue :
Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 9 - September
Google Scholar :
https://tinyurl.com/2ehfdd8s
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26sep1009
Note : A published paper may take 4-5
working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and
ResearchGate.
Abstract :
Foot structure is a fundamental factor influencing human biomechanics, posture, and overall physical health. This
study focuses on the distribution of different foot types—namely neutral arch, low arch (flat foot), and high arch—within a
population and examines their relationship with postural balance and the potential development of obesity. Variations in
foot morphology can significantly affect weight distribution, gait mechanics, and alignment of the musculoskeletal system.
These alterations may lead to postural imbalances, reduced stability, and inefficient movement patterns. Over time, such
biomechanical inefficiencies can discourage regular physical activity due to discomfort or fatigue, thereby contributing to
sedentary behavior and an increased risk of obesity. The study further investigates which foot types are more supportive of
efficient movement and sustained physical activity. Understanding these relationships is essential for identifying individuals
at risk of developing secondary health complications. In addition, the research evaluates various corrective measures aimed
at improving foot function and overall posture. Interventions such as customized orthotic devices, strengthening and
flexibility exercises, and gait correction techniques are considered for their effectiveness in enhancing balance and promoting
active lifestyles. By establishing a link between foot type, postural control, and physical activity levels, this study highlights
the importance of early identification and targeted interventions. The findings are expected to contribute to preventive
strategies that improve functional mobility, reduce obesity risk, and support long-term musculoskeletal health.
Keywords :
Foot Type; Foot Morphology; Postural Balance; Biomechanics; Physical Activity; Obesity Risk; Orthotic Intervention.
References :
- Jain S, Kumar P, et al. Prevalence of flexible flat foot in adults: a cross-sectional study. J Clin Diagn Res. 2017;11(6):AC17-AC20. doi:10.7860/JCDR/2017/26566.10059.
- Pandey S, Pal CP, Kumar D, Singh P. Flatfoot in Indian population. J Orthop Surg (Hong Kong). 2013;21(1):32-36. doi:10.1177/230949901302100110.
- Sawant AR, Akash A. Prevalence of foot posture deformities using foot posture index in various intensive care unit nurses. Int J Community Med Public Health. 2023;10(9):3276-3282. doi:10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20232690.
- Occurrence of flat foot in Grade-I obese teachers: a cross-sectional study. Indian J Physiother Occup Ther. 2018.
- Lokesh M, Menon PG, Ashok TR. Prevalence of flat foot in South Indian school going children and concordance between Staheli's plantar arch index, Chippaux-Smirak index and Denis foot print grade in diagnosing flat foot. Indian J Orthop. 2025;59(11):1959-1968. doi:10.1007/s43465-025-01486-3.
- Sudhakar, S., Kirthika, S. V., Padmanabhan, K., Mohan Kumar, G., Senthil Nathan, C. V., Gopika, R., & Samuel, A. J. (2018). Impact of various foot arches on dynamic balance and speed performance in collegiate short distance runners: A cross-sectional comparative study. Journal of Orthopaedics, 15(1), 114–117. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jor.2018.01.050
- Sachithanandam, V., & Joseph, B. (1995). The influence of footwear on the prevalence of flat foot: A survey of 1,846 skeletally mature persons. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume, 77(2), 254–257.
- Jain, S., Kumar, P., & colleagues. (2017). Prevalence of flexible flat foot in adults: A cross-sectional study. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 11(6), AC17–AC20. https://doi.org/10.7860/JCDR/2017/26566.10059
- Pandey, S., Pal, C. P., Kumar, D., & Singh, P. (2013). Flatfoot in Indian population. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery, 21(1), 32–36. https://doi.org/10.1177/230949901302100110
- Sawant, A. R., & Akash, A. (2023). Prevalence of foot posture deformities using foot posture index in various intensive care unit nurses. International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health, 10(9), 3276–3282. https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20232690
Foot structure is a fundamental factor influencing human biomechanics, posture, and overall physical health. This
study focuses on the distribution of different foot types—namely neutral arch, low arch (flat foot), and high arch—within a
population and examines their relationship with postural balance and the potential development of obesity. Variations in
foot morphology can significantly affect weight distribution, gait mechanics, and alignment of the musculoskeletal system.
These alterations may lead to postural imbalances, reduced stability, and inefficient movement patterns. Over time, such
biomechanical inefficiencies can discourage regular physical activity due to discomfort or fatigue, thereby contributing to
sedentary behavior and an increased risk of obesity. The study further investigates which foot types are more supportive of
efficient movement and sustained physical activity. Understanding these relationships is essential for identifying individuals
at risk of developing secondary health complications. In addition, the research evaluates various corrective measures aimed
at improving foot function and overall posture. Interventions such as customized orthotic devices, strengthening and
flexibility exercises, and gait correction techniques are considered for their effectiveness in enhancing balance and promoting
active lifestyles. By establishing a link between foot type, postural control, and physical activity levels, this study highlights
the importance of early identification and targeted interventions. The findings are expected to contribute to preventive
strategies that improve functional mobility, reduce obesity risk, and support long-term musculoskeletal health.
Keywords :
Foot Type; Foot Morphology; Postural Balance; Biomechanics; Physical Activity; Obesity Risk; Orthotic Intervention.