The Effect of Heel Height on Balance, Lumbar Lordosis and Core Muscle Strength among Young Healthy Indian Females

• Published in: International journal of health sciences and research Vol. 14; no. 1; pp. 135 - 142
• Main Authors: Joshi, Gayatri, Pathak, Himanshu, Bagade, Vijaya
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 18.01.2024
• ISSN: 2249-9571; 2249-9571
• DOI: 10.52403/ijhsr.20240117

Background: High heels are commonly used by young females on daily basis. Increase in heel height cause shortening of calf muscles which affects body’s dynamic balance. Anterior tilting of pelvis leads to increase in lumbar lordosis which exert stress on muscles around lumbar spine and weakness of core muscles. In the present study, an attempt has been made to compare the high heel users with flat footwear users to find the effects on balance, lumbar lordosis and core muscle strength. Methodology: Fifty subjects fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria were randomly allocated into two groups: High heel users (group A) and Flat footwear users (group B). Assessment of dynamic balance was done by using Modified Star Excursion Test (m SEBT) or Y balance test. Lumbar lordosis angle was assessed by flexible ruler method. Core muscle strength was assessed by Sahrmann Core Stability Test. Results: The results of the present study showed that mean values of dynamic balance, lumbar lordosis and core muscle strength in both groups are statistically significant. It indicated that dynamic balance, lumbar lordotic angle and core muscle strength are affected more in group A than in group B. Conclusion: This study concludes that there is significant effect of heel height on dynamic balance, lumbar lordosis and core muscle strength in women who regularly wear high heeled footwear which can be correlated to increased episodes of lower lumbar pain, imbalanced gait and postural problems. Key words: Dynamic balance, Lumbar lordosis, Core muscle strength