Analysis of static postural balance and of intensity of musculoskeletal pains after the use of proprioceptive insoles by ostensive service militaries

ABSTRACT To maintain the balance, the body uses visual, vestibular and proprioceptive systems, which send information to the central nervous system about the body’s conditions in order to stabilize it. This study evaluated the effect of proprioceptive insoles on static postural balance and musculoskeletal pains after two months of use, through a longitudinal analytical study with 15 healthy male soldiers with a mean age of 34±7.5 years. They were subjected to balance evaluation through the Medicapteurs® platform and by CNT protocol. There was no statistical difference for the deviations of the body and speed of the center of pressure. Plantar pressure had a statistically significant change for the left and the right feet, corresponding to p=0.0001 and p=0.0007, respectively. There was a reduction in the mean values of the pains in the knees, feet and heels and a significant decrease in lumbar spine pain, with p=0.0180. The static balance was not significantly altered with the use of proprioceptive insoles by the militaries; however, these insoles provided a better redistribution of plantar pressures and seem to attenuate the musculoskeletal pains of the lower extremities. Therefore, insoles can be considered as a prevention therapy against injuries for this group related to their work activity.