Background: A plantar calcaneal spur (PCS) is an atypical osseous projection located at
the inferior aspect of the calcaneus. Heel spurs can alter natural posture and may lead to
complications such as back pain. Increased pain correlates with elevated proprioceptive
inaccuracies and diminished balance and functional mobility. Purpose: We aim to
compare the balance and proprioception of individuals with PCS and age-matched
controls. Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted at Cairo University's Faculty of
Physical Therapy involved 46 participants, including 23 patients with PCS and 23 healthy
individuals. Static balance was assessed through a single-leg stance balance test, dynamic
balance was assessed through the Biodex balancing system, foot function was quantified
by the foot pain index, and proprioception was tested with the ankle active reposition test
employing a digital inclinometer. Results: There was a statistically significant change in
the static balance test during open-eyes results across both groups (P = 0.005), which
indicates that the control group (group A) scored higher thanental group (group B). There
was a significant change in dynamic balance regarding overall stability index score and
anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral(ML) stability index score between both groups (P
≤ 0.05). The experimental group scored higher than the control group. There was a
significant change in pain, disability, and activity limitation score among the two groups
(P≤0.05), which indicates that the experimental group scored higher than the control
group. Conclusion: According to the study, as compared to healthy subjects, patients with
plantar calcaneal spur had considerably worse static and dynamic balance, foot pain, and
functional performance. |
