Systematic Review: Hip-Focused Exercises Improve Medial Longitudinal Arch Height in Pes Planus (tandfonline.com)

• Hip strengthening increased arch height in flat feet.
• Biomechanical link between hip stability and foot posture.
• Moderate to large effect in included studies.

"This systematic review evaluates the effect of hip-focused strengthening exercises on the medial longitudinal arch height in individuals with pes planus (flat feet). Pooled data from multiple studies suggest that targeted hip muscle activation can significantly increase arch height, potentially offering a novel conservative treatment approach. The review highlights the biomechanical link between proximal hip stability and foot posture, supporting the integration of hip exercises into flatfoot rehabilitation protocols. Further high-quality RCTs are needed to confirm optimal dosing and long-term outcomes."