Gait Retraining With Visual Biofeedback Reduces Rearfoot Pressure and Foot Pronation in Recreational Runners

Abstract

Context: Running is a popular sport globally. Previous studies have used a gait retraining program to successfully lower impact loading, which has been associated with lower injury rates in recreational runners. However, there is an absence of studies on the effect of this training program on the plantar pressure distribution pattern during running. Objective: To investigate the short-term effect of a gait retraining strategy that uses visual biofeedback on the plantar pressure distribution pattern and foot posture in recreational runners. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Setting: Biomechanics laboratory. Participants: Twenty-four recreational runners were evaluated (n = 12 gait retraining group and n = 12 control group). Intervention: Those in the gait retraining group underwent a 2-week program (4 sessions/wk, 30 min/session, and 8 sessions). The participants in the control group were also invited to the laboratory (8 times in 2 wk), but no feedback on their running biomechanics was provided. Main Outcome Measures: The primary outcome measures were plantar pressure distribution and plantar arch index using a pressure platform. The secondary outcome measure was the foot posture index. Results: The gait retraining program with visual biofeedback was effective in reducing medial and lateral rearfoot plantar pressure after intervention and when compared with the control group. In the static condition, the pressure peak and maximum force on the forefoot and midfoot were reduced, and arch index was increased after intervention. After static training intervention, the foot posture index showed a decrease in the foot pronation. Conclusions: A 2-week gait retraining program with visual biofeedback was effective in lowering rearfoot plantar pressure, favoring better support of the arch index in recreational runners. In addition, static training was effective in reducing foot pronation. Most importantly, these observations will help healthcare professionals understand the importance of a gait retraining program with visual biofeedback to improve plantar loading and pronation during rehabilitation.