Pilot Study on Gait and Postural Symmetry Assessment Using Baropodometric and Stabilometric Analyses

Gait and postural symmetry are fundamental aspects of motor control, with particular relevance for rehabilitation and pediatric development. Asymmetries in plantar loading and balance regulation may reflect normal maturation or early signs of dysfunction. This pilot study aimed to assess plantar pressure distribution and postural stability in healthy pediatric subjects using baropodometric and stabilometric analyses. A single participant (male, 8 years old) with normal motor development underwent static and dynamic baropodometric tests and stabilometric evaluations under both eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions. Static analysis showed a slight predominance of left-foot loading (51%) and a posterior support tendency, while dynamic gait assessment revealed a longer stance duration on the left side and greater propulsion forces on the right. Stabilometric tests demonstrated increased sway and a Romberg index >2.0 in visual deprivation, confirming strong reliance on vision for balance control. These findings indicate that functional asymmetries can be detected even in healthy children and highlight the feasibility of baropodometric and stabilometric tools as objective measures. This pilot study provides preliminary evidence supporting their application in developmental assessment, rehabilitation monitoring, and preventive care in pediatric populations.