Authors: Gogola A., Matyja M., Żoczek K., Wodzisz P.

Published online: 1 March 2018

Background: The aim of the study is assessment of relation between passive stiffness of chosen pelvic girdle muscles and formation of heel angle (gamma) and medial longitudinal arch (MLA; determined by the Clarke’s angle (AC) ).

Material/Methods: 124 preschool children underwent observation. The examined group included 46 five years old children and 78 six years old children (girls (n=53); boys (n=71). Passive stiffness of chosen muscles that have insertions within pelvis were assessed in participants and gamma and Clarke’s angles were evaluated with use of plantography.

Results: Analysis of ANOVA variance showed significant diversification (p<0.01) of iliopsoas muscles stiffness between groups designated in regard to gamma angle (between body sides). Statistically substantial differences of passive stiffness of hamstrings and adductors (P<0.01, respectively) was also obtained in these groups. In case of analyze of passive stiffness of pelvic girdle muscles in the groups appointed in regard to Clarke’s angle the only essential effect (P<0.01) was noted within iliopsoas between body sides, but without important interactions.

Conclusions: Examination demonstrated substantial effects between passive stiffness of some muscles of pelvic girdle region and the value of gamma and Clarke’s.