Using the Hierarchical Cluster Method for Foot Deformities

Study Overview
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Brief Summary
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The aim of this study is to analyze all of the variables with a Hierarchical Cluster Analysis of Multivariate Statistical Methods to obtain more sensitive results, and also to add a new dimension to the hypothesis included in the study.

Detailed Description
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Aim and Introduction: Due to individual anthropometric differences, there are many different types of foot posture Foot posture variations affect lower extremity structure, alignment and biomechanical characteristics. Particularly in younger people, performing critical biomechanical measurements in the lower extremity and foot is extremely important to the detection of, and early intervention in, orthopedic problems that these individuals will encounter in their later life. In the literature, attempts at analysis of the evaluations realized so far have been made by univariate analysis. Considering the relationship between variation and variables, these methods result in loss of information. The aim of this study is to analyze all of the variables with a Hierarchical Cluster Analysis of Multivariate Statistical Methods to obtain more sensitive results, and also to add a new dimension to the hypothesis included in the study. Methods: The study is carried out on 2nd and 3rd year university students in the physiotherapy and rehabilitation department taking a kinesiology course. The analyses are performed at the Biruni University Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation laboratory. Patients with musculoskeletal system pathomechanics which could prevent standing and walking are not included in the study. After demographic characteristics are recorded, Q, valgity angle, subtalar joint, medial longitudinal arch and hallux valgus angles are measured with a goniometer. The height from the ground of the navicula are calculated by caliper, using the Navicular drop test. Metatarsal width are also calculated with this device. Medial longitudinal arch angle, metatarsal width and nacivular drop tests are performed under weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing conditions.

Official Title
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Anthropometric and Biomechanical Variables Causing Foot Deformities in Young Individuals, Using the Hierarchical Cluster Method

Conditions
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Foot Deformities

Intervention / Treatment
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* Diagnostic Test: Anthropometric measures


Participation Criteria
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Eligibility Criteria
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Inclusion Criteria: Healthy university students. Must be able to walk independently. Exclusion Criteria: Students with chronic sprains. Students who had undergone lower extremity surgery within the last year. Students who use assistive walking devices.

Ages Eligible for Study
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Minimum Age: 18 Years
Maximum Age: 24 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study
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All

Study Plan
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How is the study designed?
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Arms and Interventions

| Intervention/Treatment |
| --- |
|Diagnostic Test: Anthropometric measures|Q, valgity angle, subtalar joint, medial longitudinal arch and hallux valgus angles were measured with a goniometer. The height from the ground of the navicula was calculated by caliper, using the Navicular drop test. Metatarsal width was also calculated with this device. Medial longitudinal arch angle, metatarsal width and nacivular drop tests were performed under weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing conditions.|

What is the study measuring?
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Primary Outcome Measures

| Outcome Measure | Measure Description | Time Frame |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Navicular drop test | The height of navicula will be measured in weight-bearing and non-weight bearing conditions in millimeters. | 2 weeks. | 
| Metatarsal width | The width of metatarsal zone will be measured in weight-bearing and non-weight bearing conditions in millimeters. | 2 weeks. | 
| Subtalar angle | The angle between calcaneus and Achilleus tendon will be measured with goniometer in standing position and the degree will be calculated. | 2 weeks. | 
| Hallux valgus angle | The angle between 1st metatars and hallux will be measured with goniometer and the degree will be calculated. | 2 weeks. | 

Secondary Outcome Measures

| Outcome Measure | Measure Description | Time Frame |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Q angle | The angle of quadriceps femoris muscle will be measured with goniometer in supine position and the degree will be assessed. | 2 weeks. | 
| Medial longitudinal arch angle | The angle between 1st metatarsophalangeal joint, navicula and medial malleol will be measured and the degree will be calculated. | 2 weeks. | 

 Terms related to the study
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Keywords Provided by Centre Hospitalier Valida
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Foot deformities, Cluster method, Kinematic analysis