Comparison of F-Scan in-sole and AMTI forceplate system in measuring vertical ground reaction force during gait

Abstract

To compare an insole foot pressure system (F-Scan) and forceplate (AMTI) system for assessing vertical ground reaction forces (GRF) during walking, 30 adults walked at a self-selected pace with both systems recording GRF data simultaneously. Univariate analysis of variance showed no statistical differences between the two systems (P >. 05) in first peak force (F1), minimum force (Fm), and second peak force (F2). F-Scan data, however, showed a significant delay (P <. 05) in times to F1, Fm, and F2 (P <. 05). Curve correlation demonstrated higher correlations (r >. 7) for the 21-90% interval of the support phase than both the initial and a brief period before toe-off (r =. 05-.7). These results suggest that, with careful procedure, the F-Scan insole system could be a useful device to measure the vertical GRF during gait. However, caution should be exercised when interpreting the pressure and force data during the initial 21% and final 10% of the support phase of walking.