Effects of obesity on plantar pressure distribution in children

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether there were differences in static and dynamic plantar pressure distribution between obese and non-obese children. Method: Twenty children aged from nine to eleven years were assessed and divided into two groups (obese and non-obese groups). The assessments included measurements of plantar pressure variables while standing and walking, by means of the Pedar System (Novel GMbH). Results: The obese children presented greater contact area, peak pressure, maximum mean pressure and pressure-time integral, in comparison with the non-obese children, with significant differences particularly in the midfoot and forefoot areas. Conclusion: The differences observed between the groups indicated that obese children may present significant modifications to their feet because of the excessive and repetitive loads that they are exposed to, which increases the risk of developing foot injuries and pathologies. It is suggested that there is a need to implement intervention programs with the aim of interfering with the progression of obesity-related problems from a structural and functional perspective.