Prevalence of Pes Planus and Foot Health-Related Quality of Life Among University Students

Abstract

Background: Pes planus (flat foot) is a common deformity whose prevalence and functional consequences in young adults, particularly university students, remain incompletely characterised. Objective: To determine the prevalence of pes planus using the Navicular Drop Test, examine associations with gender and body mass index, and compare foot-health-related quality of life between students with and without pes planus. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study enrolled 126 university students (18–27 years) in Karachi, Pakistan, in 2023. Navicular Drop Test (≥10 mm defined pes planus) and Foot Health Status Questionnaire data were collected. Associations were tested with chi-square and effect sizes; quality-of-life domains were compared by one-way ANOVA. Results: Pes planus prevalence was 17.5% (95% CI 11.2–23.8%) in the right foot and 11.1% (95% CI 5.7–16.5%) in the left foot. Higher body mass index was significantly associated with right-foot pes planus (χ²=7.98, p=0.047, Cramer's V=0.22; OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.1–7.2). Foot Health Status Questionnaire scores showed mild pain and minor functional limitation overall, with no significant differences across arch types (pain p=0.292, function p=0.378, footwear p=0.329). Conclusion: Pes planus is common among university students and linked to elevated body mass index, yet it does not substantially impair foot-related quality of life in this age group. Attention to footwear fit and weight management may offer preventive benefits.