Study of Foot Biomechanics and Bone Shape in Adults With Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction to Improve Diagnosis and Treatment

What this Trial Is About

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction PTTD is a progressive tendon condition impacting the tibialis posterior muscle, leading to symptoms such as tendinopathy or rupture. It causes difficulty in locking the mid foot, contributing to adult acquired flatfoot deformity, severe pain, impaired walking, foot arch collapse, and joint damage. Current clinical classifications focus on pain, joint flexibility, tendon condition via ultrasound, and arthritis seen on X-rays but do not consider bone shape or biomechanical foot and ankle function. This research assesses the biomechanical and morphological characteristics of PTTD by combining standard clinical assessments with advanced gait analysis and imaging. The study involves 75 PTTD patients across stages I, II, and III, and 25 healthy volunteers. Participants undergo diagnostic tests including X-rays, ultrasound, MRI if needed, CT scans for joint arthritis, and instrumented gait analysis using 3D cameras, force plates, and pressure platforms. The goal is to relate bone morphology to biomechanical changes for improved patient classification and tailored treatment strategies. Participants will be evaluated through detailed gait analysis measuring kinematics, kinetics, and bone shape over one year. They will complete questionnaires assessing foot and ankle function, general health, and pain levels. Data collected includes center of pressure, angular velocity, joint moments, power absorption and generation, and bone morphology. The study aims to enhance diagnosis and optimize treatment planning by better understanding pathological changes, ultimately improving patient mobility and quality of life.

Biomechanical and Morphological Characterization of PTTD