A COMPREHENSIVE METHODOLOGY FOR CORRECTING FLAT FEET IN PRIMARY SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN USING A TRAINING DEVICE

The article presents a scientifically grounded methodology for the correction and prevention of planovalgus deformity in primary school children using an original training device. The authors’ comprehensive methodology combines therapeutic exercise,
therapeutic massage according to the method of A. V. Verbov, therapeutic taping according to F. A. Subbotin, and the use of a specially designed innovative training device for the prevention and correction of planovalgus deformity. It also includes diagnostic plantography using the graphic calculation method of G. G. Potikhanova, S. F. Godunov, and N. P. Chernina, functional testing, and anthropometric measurements. The results of the
pedagogical experiment showed a characteristic improvement in the morphofunctional parameters of the foot and physical fitness in the following groups, with a greater increase observed in the experimental group: a reduction in coefficient K by 23.6–29.3%, an increase in the heel angle by 171–181%, and an increase in the strength of the lower leg and foot muscles by 28.2%. The obtained data confirm the hypothesis that the integration of active and passive methods using a specialised training device enhances the effectiveness of correcting planovalgus deformity in primary school children. The developed methodology is recommended for implementation in educational and medical institutions.

children, primary school age, flat-valgus foot deformity, rehabilitation, therapeutic exercise, kinesiotaping, massage, plantography, training device, complex methodology