Foot pressure distribution differences between young adult and older subject: a biomechanical parameters analysis

Abstract

Foot problems are common in older people and altered biomechanical parameters under the foot sole may lead to ulceration. Therefore this study evaluates foot pressure distribution parameter Power Ratio (PR) in young adult and older subjects during standing. We acquired foot pressure distribution during standing using PedoPowerGraph(P) system for 20 subjects with age range from 30 to 65 years. Various pedopowergraphic parameters were evaluated and the results were analysed. We observe statistical significant differences in mean PR value (p < 0.05) in older subject under hind foot and fore foot region. In addition, older subject had lower mean PR value in medial foot region and higher mean PR value in lateral fore foot region as compared to young adult. Our findings indicate that increase in lateral forefoot and hind foot PR value is prevalent in older subject and may be responsible for higher incidence of foot problems.