Search for a command to run...
Background and Objective: The ankle foot complex is meant to provide coordinated synergy of both its intrinsic and extrinsic muscles, which is fulfilled by the mobility and stability component of this joint. Any deviation in the normal biomechanics and functions of the foot and ankle complex affects the professional efficiency of a drivers. Cab drivers covering long-distances experience repetitive stress on the ankle and foot to a larger extent and hence may develop and experience various foot and ankle dysfunctions. The aim of this study is to explore the physical characteristics of ankle and foot complex in cab drivers across Bangalore. Materials and Methods: Male cab drivers within the city with Functional Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI) score of more than or equal to 100 were included in the study. Their ankle ROM, ankle muscle strength, length of dorsiflexors and plantarflexors and foot angles along with navicular drop were recorded. Results: The results showed that plantarflexors were shortened (p value 0.04) with slight restriction in the ROM of dorsiflexion along with the weakness of the dorsiflexors in these cab drivers whereas the foot angles were not affected significantly. Conclusion: Thus, the physical characteristics of the ankle-foot complex are influenced by the prolonged long-distance driving. Major Findings: Prolonged period of driving reduces dorsiflexion range of motion and its muscle strength along with increased plantarflexion tightness with no effect on the foot angles and the navicular drop.