Evidence of intrinsic foot muscle training in improving foot function: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Key Points

1. This systematic review provides evidence that supports incorporating intrinsic foot muscle training into lower limb rehabilitation programs for improving functional outcomes.

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BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

Intrinsic foot muscle deficits are associated with several lower limb conditions including plantar heel pain, hallux valgus, chronic ankle instability, exercise related leg pain and foot osteoarthritis. The intrinsic foot muscles are important contributors to foot function and incorporating intrinsic foot muscle training into rehabilitation of lower limb conditions is often recommended (1). An improved understanding of the effect of intrinsic foot muscle training on functional outcomes may help guide treatment of patients with lower limb conditions.

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of intrinsic foot muscle training on functional outcomes.

The intrinsic foot muscles are important contributors to foot function.

In most programs the short foot exercise was typically progressed from sitting to 2-leg standing to single-leg standing.

METHODS

• The authors conducted a search of four electronic databases up until March 2022. Randomized control trials with at least two weeks of intrinsic foot muscle training were included.

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