THREE-DIMENSIONAL MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE FOOT SOLES IN PRE-ADOLESCENT TABLE TENNIS PLAYERS
Journal
Biomedical Engineering Applications Basis and Communications
Start Page
2550029
ISSN
1016-2372
1793-7132
Date Issued
2025-07-11
Author(s)
Abstract
Introduction: Table tennis is a dynamic, low-impact sport that enhances physical and mental well-being in children. Through adaptive biomechanical responses, its rapid, multi-directional movements may influence foot morphology. The current study aimed to identify the differences in foot sole morphological features between children table tennis players and their nonplayer peers. Methods: A total of 300 table tennis players and 300 nonplayers, aged 8–12, underwent foot assessments using the single-image-based pin-array impression reconstruction method, enabling 3D measurements of foot length, foot width, arch height (AH) and normalised arch height (NAH) in both weight-bearing and nonweight-bearing conditions. A two-way ANOVA was applied to identify possible differences across player and age groups. Results: Compared with controls, table tennis participants had significantly larger foot length (p < 0.05) but lower BMI (p < 0.05). Under nonweight-bearing conditions, no significant between-group morphological differences were observed (p > 0.05), but reduced AH and NAH (p < 0.05) were found during standing, suggesting similar underlying arch structures but more slackened passive ligamentous structures (e.g. the plantar fascia) under load, consistent with a flexible flat foot. NAH remained relatively stable across all ages, implying that although absolute arch height may decrease under load, the proportion of AH to foot length remains consistent. Conclusion: This study established a three-dimensional foot morphology database for children aged 8–12 engaged in table tennis and identified distinct differences between table tennis participants and nonplayers. Despite similar arch characteristics under nonweight-bearing conditions, the table tennis group demonstrated more compliant arch tissues and a substantial reduction in arch height under load, consistent with flexible flatfoot. These findings suggest that the ongoing foot development typical of childhood and the demands of table tennis training shape a foot structure that may compromise normal foot alignment and musculoskeletal integrity.
Subjects
Arch height
Arch index
Foot morphology
Table tennis
Publisher
National Taiwan University
Type
journal article