Foot-ankle kinematics subgroups in healthy runners: a hierarchical cluster analysis

The aim of this study was to identify homogeneous subgroups of running gait patterns in asymptomatic subjects using 3-D kinematic data from the foot-ankle complex. Seventy-three healthy long-distance recreational runners were assessed for 3-D running kinematics. A Hierarchical Cluster Analysis was applied to foot-ankle kinematic variables, which lead to the identification of 2 clusters. Healthy runners present sub-groups with distinct and homogeneous patterns with differences in dynamic plantar arch behaviour, rearfoot horizontal plane and midfoot frontal plane movements.