Comparing the effects of University of California Biomechanics Laboratory and custom-made semi-rigid insole on pedobarographic parameters in pediatric flexible flat foot

Background: Pediatric flexible flat foot (PFFF) is often associated with pain along the medial longitudinal arch and potential disability. There are several conservative treatment options for PFFF, ranging from intrinsic muscle exercises to orthosis, including University of California Biomechanics Laboratory (UCBL) and custom-made semi-rigid insoles. Objective(s): To investigate and compare the effect of UCBL and custom-made semi-rigid insoles on pedobarographic and radiologic parameters in PFFF. Study Design: This study prepared a retrospective chart review of 143 children diagnosed with PFFF between the age of 4 and 12 years. Methods: Data of twenty-seven children with PFFF who were prescribed foot orthoses between the age of 4 and 12 years were retrospectively reviewed. Medical charts were retrospectively reviewed, and pedobarographic and radiological parameters assessed before and 1 year after application of orthoses were reviewed. Results: The difference in the calcaneal pitch angle and the center of pressure excursion index (CPEI) were significantly improved in the custom-made semi-rigid insole group compared to that in the UCBL group. The contact area ratio of the midfoot and toe and CPEI at 1 year after wearing the insole was significantly improved in the custom-made semi-rigid insole group compared to that in the UCBL group. Moreover, the calcaneal pitch angle and CPEI were significantly improved 1 year after application of the insole in the custom-made semi-rigid insole group. Conclusions: This result showed that the custom-made semi-rigid insole is more effective in improving the deviation of the center pressure curve and calcaneal pitch angle than the UCBL. The custom-made semi-rigid insole may help relieve foot instability during gait and improve the medial longitudinal arch in children with PFFF.