

The authors measured a significant decrease in muscle size of the flexor digitorum brevis, abductor digiti minimi, and abductor hallucis without noting a change in muscle activity. Protopapas et al published a randomized controlled trial in August 2020 that sought to determine the effect of a 12-week custom orthotic intervention on intrinsic foot muscle size and activity. Foot orthotics are commonly prescribed as a first line intervention for individuals with pes planus, but the research shows that short foot exercises should be included as a primary treatment strategy for pes planus.

Pes planus, otherwise known as flatfoot, is a common condition experienced by many individuals that is often associated with plantar fasciitis and development of knee and hip pain.
