Comparison of Peak Pressure, Maximum Force, Contact Area, and Contact Time Between the Right and Left Foot in Elite Weightlifters

Abstract

Background: Sports activities may alter the parameters of plantar pressure distribution while walking. Objectives: The present study aimed to compare the peak pressure, maximum force, contact area, and contact time between the right and left foot and their correlations with height and weight in elite weightlifters. Methods: This study was conducted on 12 elite weightlifters with the mean age of 23.2 ± 2.26 years. The parameters of plantar pressure distribution were measured using the Emed platform during barefoot walking. In addition, the AutoMask software was used to divide the sole into 10 anatomical regions. The parameters of peak pressure, maximum force, contact area, and contact time in each region were also estimated using the MultiMask evaluation software. Data analysis was performed using paired t-test and Pearson’s correlation-coefficient (P ≤ 0.05). Results: Significant differences were observed in the peak pressure parameter in the third region (medial midfoot) and maximum force parameter in the ninth region (9th toe) between the right and left foot. Moreover, positive, significant correlations were denoted between height and weight with the peak pressure, maximum force, contact area, and contact time (P < 0.01). In the left foot, an inverse, significant correlation was observed between the maximum force and height in the fifth region (first metatarsal bone) (P < 0.05). Conclusions: According to the results, the functional demand for both feet is very close in weightlifting. Therefore, insole designers must pay special attention to the reduction of the load on the third to fifth metatarsal bones in order to prevent complications such as metatarsalgia in athletes in the long run.