Wrist Joint Restriction: Impact on Foot Pressure, Center of Gravity, and the Role of the Dominant Hand

TL;DR

Wrist immobilization affects foot pressure and balance, with changes in gait and support area observed, regardless of visual conditions or hand dominance.

Contribution

The study reveals a dynamic link between wrist function and lower limb biomechanics during immobilization.

Findings

Wrist immobilization alters antero-posterior oscillation and increases plantar support area.

Eye state significantly influences plantar support, independent of immobilization or dominance.

Visual conditions and hand dominance do not negate the effects of wrist immobilization on gait parameters.

Abstract

Background: Wrist immobilization is a common clinical intervention for wrist injuries; however, its repercussions on gait parameters and plantar support have not been extensively investigated. Objectives: The purpose of the study was to determine whether wrist immobilization causes alterations in foot pressure and center of gravity, considering hand dominance and visual conditions (eyes open or closed). Methods: The research experiment was conducted using the PodoPrint S4 platform. Basic descriptive statistics were calculated to summarize the variables. Additionally, in the mixed linear model (t-tests use Satterthwaite’s method) an analysis of variance for repeated measures (ANOVA-RM) was conducted for the determination of the objectives of the study. Results: This study included a total of 44 participants (29 females and 15 males), with an average age of 36.5 years (SD = 17.5). Immobilization, independent of eye condition, resulted in significant alterations in antero-posterior oscillation and in a larger plantar support area. In addition, the results suggest that the eye state significantly influences plantar support, independent of limb immobilization or dominance. Conclusions: Our findings reveal significant alterations in antero-posterior oscillation and plantar support due to immobilization, suggesting a dynamic interplay between wrist function and lower limb biomechanics.

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