The effect of eight-week corrective games on knee, ankle, and foot alignment in boys aged 9 to 11 years old with pronation syndrome

Abstract

Background

Corrective games are engaging and enjoyable physical activities designed to address musculoskeletal imbalances and improve movement patterns. These games incorporate play and fun while promoting proper movement mechanics, making them an effective therapeutic tool for rehabilitation and physical therapy programs.

Objectives

The study aimed to investigate the effects of an 8-week corrective games program on the q-angle, navicular drop, and Staheli index in 9–11-year-old students with pronation syndrome.

Materials and methods

This study belongs to the randomized controlled trial and focuses on 9- to 11-year-old male students with pronation foot syndrome in the city of Farooj. A cluster random sampling method was utilized to select three primary schools, and students from third to sixth grade were included based on specific criteria while excluding others. Among the students diagnosed with pronation foot syndrome, 30 were randomly selected as a sample and divided into two groups: an experimental group (N = 15) and a control group (N = 15). The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 22 software, and statistical tests such as the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test and repeated measures ANOVA were employed to analyze the data and draw conclusions.

Results

The results of the covariance analysis showed significant differences between the experimental and control groups in terms of Q angle (F = 7.69, p = 0.010), navicular drop (F = 4.65, p = 0.040), and stability index (F = 18.66, p = 0.001). This means that with the control of the pre-test effect, significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of Q angle, navicular drop, and Staheli index.

Conclusion

The present study shows that corrective exercises are effective in aligning the knee, ankle, and foot positions in 9- to 11-year-old boys with pronation syndrome. Coaches and exercise specialists can use these research findings to improve the posture and enhance the lifestyle of individuals with lower limb misalignments caused by decreased mobility.