Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different walking strategies, including normal, toe-out, and toe-in walking, on peak force and plantar pressure distribution across ten foot regions.
Methods The study population consisted of university students aged 18 to 25 years. A total of 21 participants were randomly selected using G*Power software. The RS-Scan International footscan system, with a sampling frequency of 253 Hz, was used to assess the distribution of peak force and plantar pressure. A mixed-design ANOVA was employed for analysis.
Results Overall, compared to normal and toe-out walking, toe-in walking reduced peak force and plantar pressure in the big toe, first metatarsal, and medial heel regions. However, it increased peak force and plantar pressure in the fourth and fifth metatarsals and the midfoot region. Toe-out walking, compared to normal and toe-in walking, increased peak force and plantar pressure in the first metatarsal but decreased peak force in the third metatarsal and plantar pressure in the third and fourth metatarsals.
Conclusion Toe-in walking may be beneficial for rehabilitation, whereas toe-out walking could pose a risk for individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Individuals with flat feet should adopt a toe-in walking pattern and avoid a toe-out pattern, whereas those with high arches may benefit from the opposite strategy. For patients with medial knee osteoarthritis, the choice between toe-in and toe-out walking should be guided by their foot posture.