Pedobarographic analysis of body weight distribution on the lower limbs and balance after Ilizarov corticotomies

• Axis deformity affect the biomechanics of the musculoskeletal system.
• Correction of the axis provide uniform, symmetrical distribution of the load.
• Axis correction do not allow for balance comparable to healthy subjects.

BackgroundSymmetrical distribution of the load of the lower limbs and balance are among the determinants of proper biomechanics of the musculoskeletal system. So far, it has not been elucidated whether the correction of the axis and the equalization of the length of the lower limbs allow for achieving proper balance and load distribution. The aim of the present study was to compare load distribution and balance of patients who underwent Ilizarov method corticotomies with healthy controls.MethodsThe clinical studies evaluated 57 patients, who underwent corticotomy with the Ilizarov method. The control group consisted of 59 healthy volunteers. The evaluation assessed the distribution of the load of the lower limbs and balance using pedobarographic platform.FindingsIn the study group operated limb bore 48.02% of the load on average, while the healthy limb 51.98%. These differences were not statistically significant. The average percentage of load in limbs in treated and control groups did not differ significantly. In the study group, the average length of path of the center of gravity was 145.47 cm. In the control group, the average length of path of the center of gravity was 112.69 cm. In the study group, the average area of the center of gravity was 7.54 cm2, while in the control group it was 5.19 cm2.InterpretationIlizarov method corticotomy allows for the obtainment value of the load distribution of the lower limbs in the study group not significantly different from those in a control group, but does not ensure the achievement of completely normal balance.