Static Foot Pressure Distribution in Apert Syndrome Patients

Purpose: To describe plantar pressure patterns in Apert syndrome patients.

 Methods: The plantar pressure patterns of the feet of thirty-five patients, aged 4-38 yrs (19 female, 16 male) were measured during barefoot standing, using a HR Mat™ System, a high-resolution pressure distribution measurement platform (TekScan, Boston, MA). 

 Results: The average percentage of total body weight on the left foot vs. right foot was 47.74 and 52.45 respectively with average difference of 13.89% between feet. 11 of 35 patients (31.43%) had a large asymmetry (≥20%) in foot contact between the left and right feet. Pressure distribution differences between the ball and the heel were noted in 23 of 35 right feet (65.71%) and 24 of 35 left feet (68.57%). Most patients had higher pressure (weight-bearing) at the heels (82.86% left heels vs. 77.14% right heels). Twenty-four of the 35 patients (69%) exhibit a complete lack of lateral arch support in the standing position

 Conclusion: This groundbreaking study shows that most patients present with asymmetrical pressure distribution between their feet, and a lack of support along the lateral arch. The findings indicate the importance for nurses working with this population to be aware that patients with Apert syndrome may be at high risk for falls. Efforts should be carried out to prevent falls, improve quality of care and promote a safe environment for patients with Apert syndrome.