An assessment of strapping techniques commonly used for pronated foot deformities.
BACKGROUND
This study investigated the effects of two low-Dye and two high-Dye strapping techniques that are commonly used to treat pronatory sequelae.


METHODS
Plantar pressure distribution in normal adults with a pronated foot type was assessed with a commercially available pressure platform system. Twenty study participants first walked across the platform barefoot and then with each of the four strapping conditions applied. The footprints were averaged and divided into seven areas for analysis.


RESULTS
Paired t tests found significant differences between the barefoot and strapping conditions. Overall, there was a general lateralization of pressures indicating an antipronation effect from all strapping conditions. Low-Dye strap 2, used to limit the degree of calcaneal eversion, produced the most significant changes at the foot pressure areas analyzed.


CONCLUSIONS
The data reported in this study suggest that the four strapping techniques offer different levels of control, and this should be considered during the decision-making process and clinical management of pronatory conditions. It was the contention of this study that low-Dye strap 2 was the most effective strapping technique to control foot mechanics associated with a pronated foot type.
Carter
Kate
K
Faculty of Health, Staffordshire University, Stoke on Trent, United Kingdom.
Chockalingam
Nachiappan
N
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001458:Bandages; D005260:Female; D005530:Foot Deformities / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011032:Podiatry / Q000379:methods*; D011403:Pronation / Q000502:physiology*