Prevalence and structure of foot deformities in primary school children

Abstract

Aim. To study the prevalence and structure of deformity of the foot in primary school children (pupils of the 1st- 4th grades). Materials and methods. The study involved 277 children aged 7-10 years. The main method of investigation used was computed plantography by means of electronic baropodometer PadProfessional. Results. Deformity of the foot was detected in 58% of children 65.3% of boys and 52.3% of girls (p 0.05). The following pathology was revealed: platypodia, increase in the load on the calcaneal part of the foot and malposition of the foot. The most common pathology was platypodia diagnosed in 28.2% of children. Conclusions. High prevalence of foot deformities requires their early diagnosis and correction as well as improvement of parents knowledge regarding this problem.