Effects of calcaneal eversion on three-dimensional kinematics of the hip, pelvis and thorax in unilateral weight bearing

Understanding the kinematic chain from foot to thorax will provide a better basis for assessment of malalignment of the body. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of induced calcaneal eversion on the kinematics of the hip, pelvis and thorax in three dimensions under unilateral weight-bearing. Twenty-eight healthy males were requested to stand on one leg under three conditions: normal (standing directly on the floor), and on wedges producing 5 degrees and 10 degrees calcaneal eversion. Recorded kinematic parameters included the angles of the hip joint, pelvis, and thorax in three dimensions. Eversion induced by wedges produced significant increases in hip flexion, hip medial rotation, pelvic anterior tilt, and thoracic lateral tilt and axial rotation to the standing side. In the frontal plane, pelvic lateral tilt to the standing side was decreased in 5 degrees eversion condition compared with normal condition; conversely, it was increased in 10 degrees eversion condition compared with 5 degrees eversion condition. Arch height was negatively correlated with change in thoracic axial rotation to standing side from the normal to 10 degrees eversion (r = -.528, p < .01). We concluded that induced calcaneal eversion affects the three-dimensional kinematics of the thorax through the hip joint and the pelvis. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.