Influence of flat feet on femoral cartilage thickness and physical performance in individuals with knee pain-an ultrasonographic analysis

This observational study aims to analyse the influence of flat feet on femoral cartilage thickness and physical performance in individuals aged 40 years and above with and without knee pain. Flat feet alter lower-limb biomechanics, leading to abnormal knee joint loading and potential cartilage degeneration. Participants with flat feet will be identified using the navicular drop test. Femoral cartilage thickness of the medial, intercondylar, and lateral femoral condyles will be measured using ultrasonography. Physical performance will be assessed using the 30-second chair stand test, Timed Up and Go test, and 6-minute walk test. A total of 53 participants will be recruited from the Physiotherapy Outpatient Department. Participants will be grouped based on the presence or absence of knee pain. The study duration will be six months. Ethical approval and informed consent will be obtained prior to participation. The findings may aid in early identification and preventive strategies for knee joint degeneration in individuals with flat feet.