Comparison of short-term effects of virtual reality and short foot exercises in pes planus

Abstract

Background: Virtual reality exercises (VRE) offers functional, multipurpose usage with a motivational approach. This study aimed to compare VRE and short foot exercises (SFE) in individuals with flexible pes planus. Methods: Forty participants with pes planus were assigned to the SFE group (n = 20) or VR exercise group (n = 20). Both groups performed exercises three times a week for four weeks. The groups were assessed with a navicular drop test for the height of the medial longitudinal arch, craig Test for femoral anteversion, Star Excursion Test for balance,10 step test for performance. Results: For two groups there is a statistically significant difference between before and after treatments(p < 0.05). There is no difference between VRE and SFE groups after treatments for all parameters(p > 0.05). Conclusions: Two different 4-week-exercise programs for pes planus have a similar effect on performance, balance, and navicular drop values in both groups. It was considered that the practice of VR exercises like short foot exercises could also address rehabilitation goals, which included improving balance, performance, and foot posture. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04283357. © 2021 Elsevier Ltd