# Effects of proprioceptive stimulation foot pads on in-toeing gait in children: a retrospective study

## TL;DR

This study found that proprioceptive foot pads improved foot angle in children with in-toeing gait, but had limited effects on other gait parameters.

## Contribution

The study provides preliminary evidence on the effectiveness of proprioceptive stimulation foot pads for in-toeing gait in children.

## Key findings

- The treatment group showed significant improvement in foot progression angle.
- Walking speed, step length, and plantar pressure changed in both groups without consistent differences.
- Proprioceptive foot pads appear to have limited effects on most gait parameters.

## Abstract

In-toeing gait is a common developmental condition in children and may lead to gait instability, frequent falls, and discomfort. However, evidence supporting conservative interventions, such as proprioceptive stimulation foot pads, remains limited.

To evaluate the effects of proprioceptive stimulation foot pads on gait parameters in children with in-toeing gait.

This retrospective study included 119 children aged 5–12 years who were diagnosed with in-toeing gait in Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University between January 2020 and April 2023. Based on clinical records, children who received proprioceptive stimulation foot pads were assigned to the treatment group, while those managed by observation alone comprised the control group. Gait parameters measured at baseline and follow-up were extracted for analysis.

Compared with the control group, the treatment group demonstrated a significant improvement in foot progression angle. In contrast, walking speed, step length, stride length, arch index, and plantar pressure showed changes in both groups, with no consistent between-group differences.

Proprioceptive stimulation foot pads are associated with improved foot progression angle in children with in-toeing gait, while effects on other gait parameters appear limited. These findings provide preliminary support for the use of this conservative intervention.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13018-025-06644-9.