Prevalence of Flat Foot in Bharatanatyam Dancers

Abstract

Aim: To study the prevalence of flat foot in Student Bharatnatyam dancers. Objectives: To evaluate foot posture in Student Bharatanatyam dancers with foot posture index. Methodology: The study was conducted on 223 participants who are practicing Bharatanatyam from 4 month up to 7 years. A written consent was taken and procedure was explained to subjects. Participants who had history of congenital lower limb deformity and lower limb injury in last 6 months, BMI >25 i.e. overweight were excluded from selection criteria. Foot structure was assessed with the help of Foot Posture Index 6 assessment chart which gives a detailed assessment for the changes in Medial longitudinal arch. Results: The output of the assessment of FPI-6 claimed that out of 223 samples, 46.6% samples came under Highly Pronated category, 44.4% under pronated category and 9% in normal category. The involvement of left and right foot was found similar. Conclusion: The outcome of the assessment revealed that there are 91.47% participants Bharatanatyam dancers have Flat foot which suggest Flat foot is highly prevalent in practicing Bharatanatyam dancers. Clinical Implications: As Flat foot is prevalent amongst Bharatanatyam Dancers, with the help of Intrinsic foot muscle training, strengthening of foot muscles and use of proper orthotic foot wear that supports the arch can be worn to prevent flat foot issue. Key words: Flat foot, Bharatanatyam, Foot posture alignment, Functional changes, Medial longitudinal arch.