Effectiveness of dynamic foot stabilizer muscle kinesio taping and sham taping with conventional exercise therapy on dynamic postural stability and agility among recreational football players with flexible flatfoot-a comparative study

TITLE: Effectiveness of dynamic foot stabilizer muscle kinesio taping and sham taping with conventional exercise therapy on dynamic postural stability and agility among recreational football players with flexible

flat foot—a comparative study

This study investigated the comparative effectiveness of dynamic foot stabilizer muscle kinesio taping (KT) versus sham taping, both combined with conventional exercise therapy, on dynamic postural stability and agility among recreational football players with flexible flatfoot. Flexible flatfoot is characterized by a diminished medial longitudinal arch during weight bearing, which leads to altered foot biomechanics and stability.

The study involved 36 recreational football players aged 18-25 with flexible flatfoot confirmed by the navicular drop test. Participants were divided into two groups: one received kinesio taping targeting the tibialis posterior and fibularis longus muscles plus exercises, and the other received sham taping plus the same exercise protocol. Exercises included towel scrunches, short foot exercises, resisted ankle eversion, and single-leg balance tasks.

Outcomes measured were dynamic postural stability (using the Star Excursion Balance Test) and agility (using the T-test), along with the Navicular drop test. The intervention lasted 6 weeks, with assessments at baseline, post-treatment, and 8 weeks.

The study rationale highlighted KT’s benefit in providing continuous sensory input to foot stabilizer muscles, enhancing proprioception and postural control beyond what exercises alone offer. The research aimed to clarify whether Kinesio taping adds significant benefit over sham taping when combined with conventional therapy for flexible flatfoot.

In essence, this study addresses whether kinesio taping offers additional improvements in foot function and athletic performance in flexible flatfoot athletes compared to placebo taping, making it relevant for clinicians designing rehabilitation programs in this population.

This research contributes to understanding the role of KT as an adjunct to exercise therapy in improving dynamic foot stability and agility in sports settings.