The Native Features of Plantar Pressure Distribution with Centers of Gravity and Foot Posture among Indigenous Taiwanese

Background Indigenous Taiwanese were generally considered to have excellent physical fitness and athletic ability. The correlation of these performances with their foot features has rarely been studied. The study aims to explore the static plantar pressure profiles associated with centers of gravity control abilities and foot posture among Indigenous Taiwanese to understand the native outline of unique foot characteristics. Methods A cross-sectional retrospective analysis from 165 indigenous college students and 183 healthy age-matched students is conducted. Bipedal static plantar pressure distributions (PPDs) along with arch index (AI) and centers of gravity balance are examined with the JC Mat. Foot posture is determined by estimating the rearfoot postural alignment. Results Findings of the study revealing the native outline of indigenous’ foot characteristics were presented as low-arched feet with higher relative loads at the medial and lateral longitudinal arches of the midfoot as well as the medial metatarsals of the forefoot. Footprint image was recognizable as cuboid and navicular dropped appearances. Both performances of balance abilities and rearfoot postural angles were unexpectedly well than the general population. Conclusions The native outline of foot features in Indigenous Taiwanese were low arches with navicular and cuboid drops for the midfoot, but their balance and rearfoot posture remained normal. Therefore, the relationships among indigenous foot characteristics, physical performance, sports ability and possible injuries deserve further investigation.