Towel Curl and Short Foot Exercises on the Medial Longitudinal Arch in Children with Flat Foot: A Pre-Experimental Study

Abstract

Introduction: Pes planus (flat foot) is a common condition in children characterized by a decrease in the medial longitudinal arch, which can affect balance, increase the risk of musculoskeletal injuries, and impact motor development. Towel curl and short foot exercises are believed to strengthen foot muscles and improve arch stability. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of combining these exercises in children with flat foot.

Methods: A pre-experimental study with a one-group pretest-posttest design was conducted on 10 boys aged 6–8 years from SD No 3 Kuwum who met the inclusion criteria (flat foot in the right foot for standardized measurement, no lower limb injuries, good dynamic balance, and effective communication). The intervention lasted 20 weeks, with sessions three times per week. Evaluations were conducted using the wet footprint test and Clarke’s angle measurement. Data analysis was performed using a paired sample t-test in SPSS 26.0.

Results: Post-intervention, there was a significant improvement in the medial longitudinal arch (p = 0.001; p < 0.05), with an average increase in Clarke’s angle of 1.0 ± 0.67 degrees, compared to the normal range of 25°–42°.

Conclusion: The combination of towel curl and short foot exercises effectively improves the medial longitudinal arch in children with flat foot. This study supports these exercises as part of physiotherapy interventions, although further research with a controlled design is needed for stronger validation.

Keywords: Pes Planus, Towel Curl, Short Foot Exercise, Clarke’s Angle, Wet Footprint Test.