Laterality versus ankle dorsiand plantarflexion maximal torques

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the connections between the functional asymmetries of lower limbs, taking into account morphological feet features, and ankle dorsi- and plantarflexion maximal torques in men and women. Methods: The study population consisted of 56 young subjects among which there were 30 women and 26 men. The assessment of upper and lower limbs’ side dominance was performed on the basis of surveys, verified with simple motor tasks that resembled the actions characteristic of the upper and lower limbs. The measurements of body build, as well as foot build, were performed with the use of accepted instruments according to the anthropometry standards. The measurements of longitudinal foot arches were conducted using the pantographic method. Ankle dorsi- and plantarflexion maximal torque values were measured under static conditions. Results: We found a positive correlation between the functional dominance of lower limb and greater strength only for ankle plantarflexion maximal torque values in correct laterality variants in women and in only one variant in men. No correlation was found between foot morphological asymmetry and the ankle dorsiand plantarflexion maximal torque values, either in women or in men. Conclusion: Our results support the idea that the functional lower limb dominance is not equivalent to the greater muscle strength.