Foot type analysis based on electronic pedobarography data in individuals with joint hypermobility syndrome/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome-hypermobility type during upright standing

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome hypermobility type (EDS) is a rheumatologic condition characterized by generalized joint hypermobility, musculoskeletal and non-musculoskeletal findings related to congenital laxity of connective tissue. As foot pain and other foot problems are reported to make daily life problematic to manage for individuals with EDS and thanks to the availability of modern technology, the aim of the present study was to characterise quantitatively the foot type in a group of individuals with EDS during upright standing. Twenty adult females with EDS (age: 36.03+14.01 years) were assessed clinically and with a baropodometric platform during upright standing. Our data evidenced that 46% of feet was with “high arch” (pes cavus), 27% of feet was with “normal arch” and the 27% was with “low arch” (pes planus or flat foot). From a clinical perspective, the characterisation of the foot type in EDS is important to identify, develop and enhance the rehabilitative options. An understanding of the relationship between pes cavus and foot pain in these patients could improve, in fact, the clinical management of these patients