Features of muscle function under load in individuals with flat feet

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K.V. Germanova
North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov (Saint Petersburg).
Email: kira.germanowa@yandex.ru
V.F. Kostyuchenko
Lesgaft National State University of Physical Education, Sport and Health (Saint Petersburg).
A.A. Germanova
Lesgaft National State University of Physical Education, Sport and Health (Saint Petersburg).

No. 6, pp. 38–40

Received: 12.04.2026 | Published: 02.06.2026

CC BY 4.0

Abstract

Objective of the study is to identify the features of the function of the muscles of the lower extremity and back in flat feet. Methods and structure of the study. The research was conducted in the laboratory of the Department of Physiology of the North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, in which 20 students aged 18–20 participated. The participants were divided into Group A and Group B, of 10 people each. In Group A, students had flat feet, while Group B consisted of students without flat feet. To assess the functional state of the muscles, the method of EMG registration was used on the Biopac Student Lab, which consists of hardware (data acquisition unit MP36/35/30, electrodes), BSL software (including PRO) and a laboratory manual. It is used for recording and analysing the electrical activity of muscles during movement. Data were recorded in the form of a graph on a computer, obtained from electrodes attached parallel to the muscle fibres. Results and conclusions. The data obtained as a result of the study showed that in the presence of flat feet, the muscles of the posterior thigh, the gastrocnemius muscle and the longissimus muscle are most additionally loaded during physical exertion. This circumstance reflects the importance in organising treatment and choosing the means and methods of flat feet prevention. The prevention of flat feet is significantly more effective and accessible than its treatment. To strengthen the muscles and the articular-ligamentous apparatus of the feet, it is recommended to perform special exercises.

Keywords

flat feet, load, EMG (electromyogram), electrodes, muscle activity, shock-absorbing functions


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