Effects of Repetitive Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation on Foot Muscle Strength and Arch Height in Adults with Flat Feet

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the effects of repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation rPMS on foot invertor muscle strength, shape, and the height of the medial longitudinal arch MLA in adults with flat feet. The study aims to find out if rPMS can improve foot function and prevent musculoskeletal problems related to flat foot deformity by strengthening key muscles like the tibialis posterior, which supports the arch and affects gait efficiency. Participants in the experimental group will receive rPMS applied non-invasively to the invertor muscles of the foot three times a week for 12 weeks. Stimulation targets the upper third of the shin and intrinsic foot muscles simultaneously with a foot stimulator. The control group will not receive stimulation but will follow the same schedule for measurements. Both groups will be assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. During the study, participants will undergo ultrasound imaging, navicular drop assessment, clinical evaluation of the plantar arch index, and isometric strength testing of the foot invertor muscles at three different times. The main measure is the change in MLA height, with secondary measures including changes in foot invertor muscle strength and muscle structure. This study will last for 12 weeks with monitoring of muscle and foot arch changes to evaluate the effects of rPMS.

Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation of Foot Muscles: Effects on Medial Longitudinal Arch Height and Foot Muscle Strength in Adults With Flat Feet