The aim of this study was to examine the effect of excessive feet arching (symmetrical and asymmetrical) on plantar pressure distribution and on the alignment of pelvis, spine and shoulder girdle. Eighty-one women (20–40 years old, 61 +/− 12 kg, 165 +/− 5 cm) were divided into 3 groups based on the foot arch index (Group 1 - with normally arched feet, Group 2 with one foot properly arched and the other high-arched, Group 3 with both feet high-arched). Plantar pressure distribution between the right and left foot for the forefoot, midfoot and rearfoot, respectively and body posture were assessed. A slight increase in longitudinal arch of the foot caused changes in the distribution of feet loads both between limbs and between the forefoot and rearfoot and also influenced the whole body. Asymmetrical high-arching of the feet resulted in asymmetry of lower limb load and in the height of the shoulder girdle. We have suggested that any alteration of the foot arch may be harmful to body tissues and should not be considered as correct. Due to the fact that slight increases in longitudinal arch of the foot are very common, they should be considered as a foot defect, and appropriate corrective exercises should be used to prevent forefoot overload and alterations in body posture.

To examine the relationship between obesity, genu valgum, and flat feet in children, and find practical implications for therapeutic interventions. A total of 1364 children aged 3–7 years took part in the research. Their body mass index was calculated and their weight status described. Participants' knee alignment was assessed by measuring the intermalleolar distance in the standing position with the knees in contact. The height of the longitudinal arch of each foot was measured using Clarke's angle. The prevalence of overweight and obesity increased with age. Reduction of intermalleolar distance and increased longitudinal arch of the foot, characteristic of typical growth and development, were observed. Genu valgum was more common in children who were overweight. Significant correlations among body mass index, intermalleolar distance, and Clarke's angle (P < .05) were also discovered. Children who are overweight or demonstrate obesity are more likely to develop genu valgum and flat feet.

The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an original intervention programme of unstable surface dual-task functional exercises on postural stability in adolescents with intellectual disability (ID). A total of 34 adolescents with ID, aged 14-16 years, were engaged in our study. A 17-person experimental group (E) took part in a 12-week intervention programme which consisted of unstable surface functional exercises, designed after activities of daily living (ADLs). Another group of 17 youngsters constituted a control group (C). Within a span of 12 weeks, the postural stability assessment was conducted twice in both groups, employing a stabilometric platform ALFA AC International East. After taking part in the intervention programme, the experimental group (E) improved all their scores (p < 0.05). The path length of the COG and the time in which the dynamic test was performed were shorter in the experimental group (E), while the control group (C) scored worse in comparison with their initial results. A distinctly positive effect of unstable-surface dual-task functional exercises on postural stability in individuals with ID was also revealed in our tests. Implications for Rehabilitation Rehabilitation of intellectually disabled persons should be carried out individually and contain ADL-based exercises. The use of unstable surfaces, making the above training more difficult, naturally stimulates the trainee to focus more closely on the task being performed. Implementation of dual-task exercises, consisting in compiling functional tasks with balance training, in the intervention programme for adolescents with ID is likely to improve efficiency of their everyday living and the quality of their lives.

Background: Excessive body weight is a lifestyle issue, which is commonly found in children in many countries worldwide, and has enormous medical implications. This study aimed to determine the effect of overweight and obesity on the shape of the spine in children. Materials and Methods: A total of 910 children 10–12 years of age participated in this study. Their height, weight, and fat tissue content were measured. Their BMI was calculated, and their body weight status was categorized. The shape of the spinal curvature was assessed using an ultrasound Zebris Pointer system. The following parameters were used for the assessment: the shape of the thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis, the sagittal trunk inclination, and alignment of the spine in the frontal plane. Results: An overweight or obesity was found in 23.7% of participants. The thoracic kyphosis was similar in children with a normal and an excessive weight. The BMI and body fat correlated statistically significantly with the shape of lumbar lordosis as well as with the tilt of the long axis of the body. The results revealed that overweight or obesity did not have any effect on the lateral bending of the spine. Conclusions: Excessive body weight was found to increase the risk for developing the lumbar hyperlordosis and cause posterior axial tilt. Therefore, overweight and obese children should participate in gymnastic classes that can help correct faulty posture. Special attention should be paid to correct the position of the lower part of the trunk.