2024, Vol. 11, Issue 4, Part A

The Medial Longitudinal Arch (MLA) plays a very important role in shock absorption and helps in the proper functioning of the lower extremities during the gait cycle. Balance is a very crucial component for performing everyday activities. The development of flatfoot occurs when the MLA collapses leading to a balance deficit. The purpose of this study is to find out the effect of Short Foot Exercises (SFE) on increasing the height of MLA and improving balance in pediatric patients. In this study, we present a 3-year-old baby with balance issues due to flatfeet which was treated with SFE. In addition to being diagnosed with flatfeet, the baby also has a global developmental delay. She is receiving physiotherapy treatment six days per week.

This study assessed balance and foot function before and after the intervention using the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) and Navicular Drop Test (NDT). There was a significant improvement in the navicular drop test in both feet following the intervention. Additionally, the PBS score improved by 8 points after the intervention. This study concludes that SFE is beneficial in improving the MLA and overall balance in pediatric patients with flat feet.