Association Between Foot Arches And Dynamic Balance In Typically Developing Children Aged 7-9 Years

This observational study aims to investigate the association between foot arch morphology, toe grip strength (TGS), and dynamic balance in a healthy pediatric population aged 7 to 9 years. As the human foot matures, the development of the medial longitudinal arch (MLA) and the strengthening of intrinsic foot muscles (IFM) are critical for shock absorption, force distribution, and postural stability. The study will be conducted at a matriculation school in Chennai with a calculated sample size of 85 participants. To move beyond subjective visual observations, the research utilizes three objective, quantifiable assessment tools: Staheli Arch Index (SAI) evaluates longitudinal arch height using static weight-bearing footprints. Novel IFM Dynamometer provides reliable measurements of toe grip strength, serving as a proxy for intrinsic foot muscle activation. Y-Balance Test (YBT) assesses dynamic postural control and functional stability through normalized reach distances in three directions. Establishing these relationships in typically developing children is essential for identifying "red flags" in motor development. Given the rise in sedentary behavior among children, these findings will assist neurophysiotherapists and pediatricians in creating early intervention protocols and prevention programs to promote lifelong musculoskeletal health.