Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess and compare the thickness of specific intrinsic foot muscles (IFM)-abductor hallucis brevis (ABH), flexor hallucis brevis (FHB), flexor digitorum brevis (FDB), quadratus plantaris (QP)-and the plantar fascia (PF) in amateur soccer and basketball players using ultrasonography. METHODS: A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 35 male amateur athletes, including 17 soccer players and 18 basketball players. Ultrasonographic imaging was performed to measure the thickness of the IFM and PF in a relaxed position for all participants. RESULTS: Basketball players demonstrated significantly greater thickness in the ABH and FHB compared to soccer players. However, no substantial differences were observed in the thickness of the FDB, QP, or PF between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: The study identified sport-specific differences in the thickness of certain intrinsic foot muscles between soccer and basketball players. These variations may be attributed to the unique movement patterns and biomechanical demands of each sport, highlighting the importance of targeted training and injury prevention programs tailored to the needs of these athletes.