METHODOLOGY: Twenty healthy adults (8 males, 12 females, age: 29±4.10years, BMI: 21.56±2.36kg/m2) participated in this study. Static and dynamic (levels 8 and 2) balance with single stance and double stance and dynamic (level 8 and levels 6-2) for risk of fall with double stance were tested with the Biodex Balance System with three self-selected feet positions: straight (13.8°), toe-out (35.6°) and toe-in (-11.9°) for each test condition. Additionally, TUG test was performed with toe-out and toe-in gait.
RESULTS: The results of repeated measures ANOVA showed significant differences (p<0.05) between straight and modified toe angles in balance at dynamic level 2 with both double and single stance conditions. Significant differences (p<0.001) were also found in TUG scores for the test conditions.
CONCLUSION: Toe-in and toe-out gait modifications have significant effects on balance at higher levels of platform tilt and functional balance. Further investigations with knee osteoarthritis patients and electromyography may provide insight in balancing strategies adopted by the body in toe-out and toe-in gait.