PENGARUH PEMBERIAN FOOT STRENGTHENING EXERCISE TERHADAP KESEIMBANGAN STATIS PADA ANAK USIA 4-6 TAHUN DENGAN FLEXIBLE FLATFOOT

Introduction: Flexible flatfoot is a condition characterized by a normal medial arch during non-weight bearing and a collapsed arch during weight bearing. Although considered part of normal development in children, it requires early intervention to prevent long-term complications such as chronic pain, postural imbalance, deformities, and reduced functional ability. Foot strengthening exercises serve as an active intervention that effectively engages intrinsic foot muscles and the sensory system through curved movements and medial arch activation, thereby enhancing muscle strength, postural control, and the ability to maintain body balance.
Objective: This study aims to examine the effect of foot strengthening exercises on static balance in children aged 4–6 years with flexible flatfoot.
Method: A pre-experimental design using a one-group pre-test and post-test approach was employed. Twenty-eight children were selected through purposive sampling. The intervention included marble pick-up and wobble cushion exercises, performed twice a week for six weeks. Static balance was measured using the Stork Stand Test.
Results: A significant improvement in static balance was observed following the intervention. The average Stork Stand duration increased from 8.57 seconds (right foot) and 10.29 seconds (left foot) to 15.25 seconds and 15.68 seconds, respectively.
Conclusion: Foot strengthening exercises are effective in improving static balance in children aged 4–6 years with flexible flatfoot.