Comparative analysis of morphometric parameters of the foot and general anthropometric characteristics of 6-year-old children with normal and overweight

Aim– to study the effect of body weight on the dynamics of anthropometric indicators, somatotype, and morphofunctional condition of the feet in six-year-old children. Material and methods. Material and methods. 262 6-year-old children (123 girls, 139 boys) were examined, divided into groups normal with (NW) and overweight (OW) body weight. Anthropometry was performed with the calculation of indices (Verveck, Pinier, Brugsch), the skinfold thickness (SFT) was assessed using caliperometry, and computer plantography of the feet was performed. Statistical analysis was conducted in SPSS version 26.0. Data are presented as medians with interquartile ranges [Q1; Q3], and group differences were evaluated at p 0.05. Results. Statistically significant differences (p 0.001) were found between the NW and OW groups in all anthropometric parameters. The calculated indices showed the predominance of meso- and brachymorphic traits and a stronger physique, respectively. Skinfold thickness was markedly higher in OW across all measured sites (p 0.001). A plantographic study showed that in children with NW, foot flattening is accompanied by an increase in its width in the middle and heel regions (p 0.01). In the OW group, the foot width was initially higher, and with flattening, the foot length increased significantly in boys (p 0.001). While in the OW group, the width in the heel area did not change statistically significantly with arch flattening (p 0.05), remaining wider both normally and with flattening. Conclusion. The results of the study confirm the systemic effect of overweight on anthropometric parameters, somatotype and morphofunctional state of feet in children aged six years. The presence of a pronounced plantar fat cushion in children with OW distorts the plantographic picture, creating a "masking effect" and requiring a differentiated approach to diagnosis.