The Influence of Arch Height on Propulsion and Landing Mechanics during Jumping and Hopping Tasks

Abstract

Arch height has served as a major indicator of foot function during locomotive tasks. Previous studies have identified that structural alterations in arch height, specifically low arch heights, can produce maladaptive kinematic, kinetic and electromyography patterns during the landing and propulsion phases of gait. However anecdotally, the structural differences of low arch height have been suggested to produce movement patterns that are beneficial in lateral directions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the influence of arch height has on lower extremity kinematics, kinetics, and muscular activity during ballistic jumping and hopping tasks. The results have indicated that the normal arch height produced different sagittal plane kinematics during the landing and propulsion phase of ballistic tasks jumping and hopping tasks. Further, low arch height produced difference mediolateral during the propulsion phases of the ballistic jumping and hopping tasks. Overall, the results of the study suggest that different arch height produced foot mechanics that may be beneficial for directionally specific locomotive tasks.