Effect of Orthognathic Surgery on Plantar Pressure and Posture

A total of 60 participants will be included in the study, consisting of 30 patients scheduled to undergo orthognathic surgery as the study group and 30 patients who have completed their orthodontic treatment and attend regular follow-up visits as the control group.

In the study group, static and dynamic computerized plantar pressure analyses will be performed preoperatively using a pedobarography system (static analysis with BEVER®, dynamic analysis with PAROMED®). These analyses will be interpreted by a physiotherapist. Total body posture analysis will be performed using the PostureScreen® mobile application. Four-directional photographs of each participant will be taken by the researcher, and posture analysis will be conducted in collaboration with the physiotherapist according to the anatomical landmarks designated by the application. Body height and weight will be measured during routine pre-anesthetic evaluations. Preoperative lateral cephalometric radiographs (PLANMECA®) will be obtained as part of routine clinical records, and cephalometric evaluations will be performed on these images.

At the 6-month postoperative follow-up, body height and weight measurements, lateral cephalometric radiographs, static and dynamic computerized plantar pressure analyses, and total body posture analysis will be repeated in the surgical group. Baseline and follow-up values will be compared to determine the direction and magnitude of changes.

In the control group, in addition to routine lateral cephalometric radiographs obtained at the end of treatment, total body posture analysis using the PostureScreen® mobile application, static and dynamic computerized plantar pressure analyses, and body height and weight measurements will be performed. The same assessments will be repeated at the routine 6-month follow-up visit for the control group participants.

Inclusion criteria

• Study Group (Orthognathic Surgery Group)

Participants will be eligible for inclusion in the surgical cohort if they meet all of the following criteria:

Individuals scheduled to undergo single-jaw or double-jaw orthognathic surgery as part of comprehensive orthodontic treatment.

Currently receiving orthodontic therapy utilizing clear aligner systems or fixed orthodontic appliances.

Availability of preoperative lateral cephalometric radiographs obtained as part of routine clinical evaluation.

Age ≥ 18 years at the time of enrollment.

Completion of a minimum of 6 months of postoperative orthodontic treatment, enabling standardized follow-up evaluation.

Body Mass Index (BMI) < 30 kg/m², to minimize confounding effects related to obesity on postural and plantar pressure measurements.

Control Group (Non-surgical Group)

Participants will be eligible for inclusion in the control cohort if they meet all of the following criteria:

Individuals not undergoing orthognathic surgery during the study period.

Receiving orthodontic treatment with clear aligners or fixed appliances, comparable to the surgical cohort.

BMI < 30 kg/m².

Age ≥ 18 years.

No participation in physical activities or rehabilitative programs that may alter postural parameters or plantar pressure distribution during the study period.

Exclusion criteria

• Participants from either cohort will be excluded if they exhibit:

Neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, or postural disorders that may independently influence balance or plantar pressure distribution.

History of previous orthognathic or maxillofacial surgery.

Systemic diseases affecting bone metabolism, neuromuscular function, or gait.

Pregnancy.

Inability or unwillingness to comply with study procedures or follow-up assessments.