The Relationship between Foot Arch Structure and Incidence of Lower Extremity Injuries in judokas

Poster Presentation
Paper ID : 1286-SSRC
Authors
1Department of Sport Injuries and Biomechanics, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
2Department of Biomechanics, and Sport Injuries , Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences , Kharezmi University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction :The arch type of the foot is often seen as a risk factor for injuries to the lower extremities, potentially leading to inefficient foot function and contributing to injuries in the lower extremities and back. Despite this, research has presented mixed results. Judo, a globally recognized martial art, is unique in that all its training and competitions are performed barefoot. This appears to increase the incidence of lower extremity injuries among judokas.
Objective : This study aims to explore the correlation between foot type and injuries to the lower extremities in judokas.
Method : A web-based survey was distributed to a selected group of judokas, gathering self-reported foot type data (with specialist consultation) and injury data from the previous six months. The collected data underwent descriptive analysis and logistic regression.
Result: The analysis of self-reported data from 255 surveys revealed that the study included 148 judokas with normal foot arches (57.3%), 80 with Pes planus (flat feet, 31.4%), and 29 with Pes cavus (high arches, 11.4%). Approximately 49.8% of judokas reported at least one lower extremity injury, with the ankle being the most common site of injury (35.5%), followed by the knee (18.3%) and foot/toe (12.4%). Pes planus was found to be associated with lower extremity injuries in judokas , with an odds ratio (OR) of 3.53 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.98-6.30.
Conclusion: The study identified a significant link between foot type and lower extremity injuries among judokas. Specifically, judokas with Pes planus (flat feet) were more likely to sustain lower extremity injuries, with an odds ratio of 3.53. This suggests that foot type, especially flat feet, may be a significant injury risk factor in this population. More research is required to further understand this relationship and its implications for injury prevention and management in judo. These results underscore the importance of considering foot type in the evaluation and training of judokas.
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