This study aims to analyse the relationship between body mass index and foot length in Chinese adolescents and to provide theoretical guidance for preventing a flat foot in Chinese adolescents. This study recruited 1477 students aged 14-23 years. The participants' height, weight, and body mass index were measured, as well as baseline data, including age, gender and foot length. Differences in foot length (bilateral) and flat foot distribution were statistically significant except for the normal foot and high arch foot distribution based on different body mass index groups. Linear correlation analysis demonstrated that body height, weight and body mass index were positively correlated with bilateral foot length regardless of gender. Body mass index acted as a risk factor for flat foot (bilateral) through disordered multi-classification logistic regression analysis. Body mass index was positively correlated with left and right foot length regardless of gender and acted as a risk factor for a flat foot in Chinese adolescents. Practitioner summary: Significant differences exist in the anthropometric data of various races and ethnic groups. The study was investigated in the form of a cross-sectional study. BMI was positively correlated with bilateral foot length and acted as a risk factor for a flat foot in Chinese adolescents.
Keywords: Body mass index; Chinese adolescents; correlation analysis; flat foot; foot length.