The Influence of myofascial techniques on functional ability in patients with painful flat foot

Background/Introduction: Flat foot pain is a common problem which is needed to be treated. Physical therapy is a one of the main ways to manage it. Currently, the myofascial techniques are frequently used in treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. The aim of this study is assessment of myofascial techniques on functional ability of painful flat or flattened foot. Material and methods: 60 adults with painful flat or flattened foot were included to this study. They were divided into 4 groups (15 participants in each) and gone physical therapy during 4 weeks: group I – myofascial techniques and exercise program, group II – only myofascial techniques, group III – only exercise program, group IV – as a control group, no intervention. Intensity and pain locatization (VAS scale and foot schemes), measurements of ankle range of motion, rearfoot angle during standing, navicular drop test, FAOQ, examination on plantar pressure and ground reaction forces during standing and walking were used to assess the effect of therapy. Results: Data were collected and analized by suitable statistical tools. Some results were statistically significant. Conslusion: The application of myofacial techniques significantly decreased pain, increased ankle range of motion and foot ability/fitness assessed by FAOQ in participants. Some significantly changes were observed also in plantar pressure and ground reaction forces measurements. Key words: pes planus, flat foot, foot pain, myofascial techniques, adults