Isolated Gastrocnemius Tightness and Tactile Sensitivity

Primary outcomes

1. Ankle dorsiflexion index

   Time frame: 6 months

   First, the participant will be asked to move their knee forward-while keeping the heel of the tested foot in full contact with the ground and the foot aligned forward-until reaching the maximum dorsiflexion position possible without the heel lifting off the ground.

   Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion will be measured with the knee flexed at a minimum of 20°. Subsequently, the same assessment will be repeated with the knee in full extension (0°). Under both conditions, the maximum angular change occurring during the forward movement of the tibia relative to the starting position will be recorded as the ankle dorsiflexion range of motion.

   The difference between the mean dorsiflexion values obtained with the knee flexed at a minimum of 20° and in full extension will be calculated as the ankle dorsiflexion index.

2. Assessment of postural control

   Time frame: 6 months

   Postural control will be assessed using a force plate (KINVENT, France). Data will be transmitted to the force plate application via a Bluetooth connection. Prior to the actual measurements, participants will be informed about the force platform and the test conditions, and a practice trial will be conducted to familiarize them with the tests. Static postural control will be assessed under three different conditions: (1) standing on both feet with eyes open, (2) standing on both feet with eyes closed, and (3) standing on one foot with eyes open. In the assessment of postural control, the primary Center of Pressure parameters-mean Center of Pressure velocity, Center of Pressure path length, and sway area-were evaluated.

3. Plantar tactile sensitivity

   Time frame: 6 months

   Plantar tactile sensitivity will be assessed using Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments. During the assessment, participants will be positioned prone, with their feet hanging freely off the edge of the examination table and not touching any surface. The assessment will begin with the monofilament that applies the lowest force, and the procedure will progress to progressively thicker monofilaments until the participant perceives the stimulus. The lowest Semmes-Weinstein monofilament value perceived in these areas will be recorded as the plantar tactile sensation threshold. Lower perceived pressure values indicate higher tactile sensitivity in the sole of the participant's foot.