Correlation Between Toe Grip Strength and Physical Performance in Elderly with Pronated Foot: A Pilot Study

Background: Age-related loss of muscle strength and balance often leads to reduced mobility and greater fall risk in older adults. Toe grip strength (TGS) is a key contributor to stability and gait, while foot posture—particularly pronation—can influence lower-limb mechanics. The combined effect of these factors on physical performance in the elderly remains underexplored. Aim: To examine the relationship between toe grip strength, foot posture index (FPI), and functional mobility using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) in older adults with pronated feet. Methods: A cross-sectional pilot study was carried out among 12 community-dwelling older adults (≥60 years) with pronated foot posture (FPI ≥ 6). TGS was assessed using a pinch gauge dynamometer, foot posture with the Foot Posture Index (FPI-6), and physical performance with the SPPB (balance, gait speed, chair stand). Correlations were analyzed with Karl Pearson’s coefficient, significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Mean TGS was 2.66 ± 1.28 kg, mean FPI 7.33 ± 1.43, and mean SPPB 3.75 ± 1.54. TGS showed a significant positive correlation with SPPB (r = 0.663, p = 0.019). In contrast, FPI showed weak, non-significant negative correlations with both TGS (r = –0.279, p = 0.38) and SPPB (r = –0.122, p = 0.705). Conclusion: Toe grip strength was positively associated with functional mobility in elderly individuals with pronated feet, while foot posture alone showed no significant influence. Strengthening toe flexors may be a valuable approach to enhance mobility and reduce fall risk in older adults. Larger, longitudinal studies are required to confirm these preliminary observations.