Differences In Plantar Pressure Research Articles

Modularity Implications of an Overground Exoskeleton on Plantar Pressures, Strength, and Spasticity in Persons with Acquired Brain Injury.

This study explored the effects of a modular overground exoskeleton on plantar pressure distribution in healthy individuals and individuals with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). The research involved 21 participants, including ABI patients and healthy controls, who used a unique exoskeleton with adaptable modular configurations. The primary objective was to assess how these configurations, along with factors such as muscle strength and spasticity, influenced plantar pressure distribution. The results revealed significant differences in plantar pressures among participants, strongly influenced by the exoskeleton's modularity. Notably, significant distinctions were found between ABI patients and healthy individuals. Configurations with two modules led to increased pressure in the heel and central metatarsus regions, whereas configurations with four modules exhibited higher pressures in the metatarsus and hallux regions. Future research should focus on refining and customizing rehabilitation technologies to meet the diverse needs of ABI patients, enhancing their potential for functional recovery.

Quantitative assessment of plantar pressure patterns in relation to foot deformities in people with hereditary motor and sensory neuropathies

BackgroundHereditary motor and sensory neuropathies (HMSN), also known as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, are characterized by affected peripheral nerves. This often results in foot deformities that can be classified into four categories: (1) plantar flexed first metatarsal, neutral hindfoot, (2) plantar flexed first metatarsal, correctable hindfoot varus, (3) plantar flexed first metatarsal, uncorrectable hindfoot varus, and (4) hindfoot valgus. To improve management and for the evaluation of surgical interventions, a quantitative evaluation of foot function is required. The first aim of this study was to provide insight into plantar pressure of people with HMSN in relation to foot deformities. The second aim was to propose a quantitative outcome measure for the evaluation of surgical interventions based on plantar pressure.MethodsIn this historic cohort study, plantar pressure measurements of 52 people with HMSN and 586 healthy controls were evaluated. In addition to the evaluation of complete plantar pressure patterns, root mean square deviations (RMSD) of plantar pressure patterns from the mean plantar pressure pattern of healthy controls were calculated as a measure of abnormality. Furthermore, center of pressure trajectories were calculated to investigate temporal characteristics. Additionally, plantar pressure ratios of the lateral foot, toes, first metatarsal head, second/third metatarsal heads, fifth metatarsal head, and midfoot were calculated to measure overloading of foot areas.ResultsLarger RMSD values were found for all foot deformity categories compared to healthy controls (p < 0.001). Evaluation of the complete plantar pressure patterns revealed differences in plantar pressure between people with HMSN and healthy controls underneath the rearfoot, lateral foot, and second/third metatarsal heads. Center of pressure trajectories differed between people with HMSN and healthy controls in the medio-lateral and anterior-posterior direction. The plantar pressure ratios, and especially the fifth metatarsal head pressure ratio, differed between healthy controls and people with HMSN (p < 0.05) and between the four foot deformity categories (p < 0.05).ConclusionsSpatially and temporally distinct plantar pressure patterns were found for the four foot deformity categories in people with HMSN. We suggest to consider the RMSD in combination with the fifth metatarsal head pressure ratio as outcome measures for the evaluation of surgical interventions in people with HMSN.

Effect of stroke direction on plantar pressure in each foot during the forehand and backhand stroke among healthy adult tennis players of different performance levels

BackgroundIn tennis, previous studies have shown differences in plantar pressure depending on tennis-specific movements (i.e., baseline play, serve & volley play, change of direction), playing surface (e.g., hard, grass, or clay), and serve type (e.g., slice, topspin or flat). However, the influence of stroke direction on plantar pressure in tennis players with diverging skill level is unknown. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the effect of stroke direction on plantar pressure in each foot during the forehand and backhand stroke among players of different performance levels.MethodsThirty-nine female and male healthy adult tennis players (mean ± SD age: 23.5 ± 6.4 years) representing athletes from three performance levels (recreational, intermediate, advanced) participated in this study. The players performed longline/cross forehand and backhand groundstrokes (topspin) on a clay court while plantar pressure distribution was measured in each foot using flexible instrumented insoles.ResultsThe three-way ANOVA (performance level × stroke direction × foot dominance) showed (a) no significant differences in plantar pressure data between cross and longline strokes in almost all cases, (b) in part, significantly larger pressure values in advanced compared to intermediate and recreational players, and (c) significantly larger pressure data for the dominant compared to the non-dominant foot in nearly all comparisons.ConclusionRegarding an appropriate plantar pressure distribution, our results suggest that during training of especially recreational and intermediate players attention should be paid to the feet rather than to stroke direction.

Plantar pressure distribution in the evaluation and differentiation of flatfeet

BackgroundAlthough foot diseases are common, only a few studies have detailed the biomechanical and anatomical components of each disorder. The most reliable diagnostic tool for flatfoot is X-ray radiography. Achieving a similar accurate and objective diagnosis using another assessment tool, such as plantar pressure measurements, can be more convenient in clinical practice. Research questionTo identify foot plantar pressure characteristics that primarily detect flatfoot based on X-ray, which addresses the use of such assessments for flatfoot diagnosis. In addition, to compare between the normal foot, flatfoot with positive Foot Posture Index-6 (FPI), and flatfoot with positive FPI and radiographic measures. MethodsSixty-two feet were examined from healthy female subjects aged 20.38 ± 1.10 years. According to the results of FPI and X-ray, each sample was assigned to one of the three groups (normal: negative FPI; FPI+: FPI ≥ +6; X-ray and FPI+: Arch Angle ≥ 165°, CP ≤ 12.3° and FPI ≥ +6) and compared using plantar pressure variables. ResultsAs per normal group compared to X-ray and FPI+ group, there was a significant difference in the surface area (P-value: 0.01, 95 % CI: −26.58 to −3.62), force (P-value: 0.04, 95 % CI: −10.37 to −0.09), and pressure (P-value: 0.01, 95 % CI: −56.78 to −6.35) in the medial foot. Similarly, the arch index among the normal group and the X-ray and FPI+ group showed significant differences (Static AI; P-value: 0.003, 95 % CI: −0.21 to −0.04). ConclusionThere was a significant difference in plantar pressure between the normal feet and flatfeet with positive FPI and X-ray in the medial foot area. SignificanceTo attain a consensus among diagnostic approaches to identify flatfoot, the combined comparison of observational, foot pressure, and radiographic methods that have shown considerable reliability can be useful for clinical practice.

Plantar pressure and falling risk in older individuals: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundFalls are commonplace among elderly people. It is urgent to prevent falls. Previous studies have confirmed that there is a difference in plantar pressure between falls and non-falls in elderly people, but the relationship between fall risk and foot pressure has not been studied. In this study, the differences in dynamic plantar pressure between elderly people with high and low fall risk were preliminarily discussed, and the characteristic parameters of plantar pressure were determined.MethodsTwenty four high-fall-risk elderly individuals (HR) and 24 low-fall-risk elderly individuals (LR) were selected using the Berg Balance Scale 40 score. They wore wearable foot pressure devices to walk along a 20-m-long corridor. The peak pressure (PP), pressure time integral (PTI), pressure gradient (maximum pressure gradient (MaxPG), minimum pressure gradient (MinPG), full width at half maximum (FWHM)) and average pressure (AP) of their feet were measured for inter-group and intra-group analysis.ResultsThe foot pressure difference comparing the high fall risk with low fall risk groups was manifested in PP and MaxPG, concentrated in the midfoot and heel (p < 0.05), while the only time parameter, FWHM, was manifested in the whole foot (p < 0.05). The differences between the left and right foot were reflected in all parameters. The differences between the left and right foot in LR were mainly reflected in the heel (p < 0.05), while it in the HR was mainly reflected in the forefoot (p < 0.05).ConclusionsThe differences comparing the high fall risk with low fall risk groups were mostly reflected in the midfoot and heel. The HR may have been more cautious when landing. In the intra-group comparison, the difference between the right and left foot of the LR was mainly reflected during heel striking, while it was mainly reflected during pedalling in the HR. The sensitivity of PP, PTI and AP was lower and the newly introduced pressure gradient could better reflect the difference in foot pressure between the two groups. The pressure gradient can be used as a new foot pressure parameter in scientific research.

The pressure time integral: An underused, clinically significant parameter as a determinant of neuropathic ulceration in diabetes

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to evaluate plantar pressure dynamics in the occurrence of active diabetic neuropathic ulceration (DNU) and any changes in loadings occurring in individuals with a history of diabetic neuropathic ulceration (DHNU). Since current gold standard offloading strategies are not producing desirable healing outcomes and optimum ulcer prevention, this study aimed to better understand the effect of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and ulceration on mean peak plantar pressure (MPPP) and pressure-time integral (PTI) changes. Research questionIs there a redistribution of plantar pressure during gait in the presence of active and history of diabetic neuropathic ulceration? MethodsA prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted, in which, eighty adult participants were divided into four groups, namely, the DM, DPN, DNU and DHNU groups. Participants were instructed to walk barefoot over a Tekscan HR Mat™ at self-selected speed. MPPP and PTI data were analysed under five forefoot anatomical landmarks and compared between individuals with and without active neuropathic ulceration. ResultsMinimal MPPP significant changes were observed between ulcerated and non-ulcerated groups, however, PTI values were significantly increased in the ulcerated groups under all plantar ulceration regions. No significant plantar pressure differences were observed between the DNU and DHNU groups. Logistic regression tests demonstrated that as PTIs under the hallux increase, the likelihood of an individual living with DPN developing ulceration increases. SignificanceA significant increase in PTI values in the presence of ulceration highlights the importance of evaluating the duration of loads under forefoot regions during gait rather than just focusing on the magnitude of pressures during ulcer management and prevention. Moreover, results show that PTI values remain high in the presence of a history of neuropathic ulceration, possibly demonstrating the value of PTI as a clinical tool over MPPP in the assessment of the high-risk diabetic foot.

Exploring in-shoe plantar pressure differences at the metatarsal pad position for patients with diabetes and toe deformities: A pilot study

Patients with diabetes are often prescribed insoles with metatarsal pads intended to prevent and offload forefoot ulcers. However, to our knowledge, the plantar pressures specifically at the metatarsal pad had not previously been researched. The aim of this study was therefore to explore plantar pressures at the metatarsal pad position by comparing three toe deformity groups, claw toe (CT)/hammer toe (HT) and hallux valgus (HV), with a control group (NONE). In-shoe plantar pressures were measured using F-ScanTM and a polygon region of interest at the metatarsal pad position was created. Mean peak pressure (MPP), pressure-time integral (PTI) and percentage foot-insole contact area at the metatarsal pad position (%CA) were analysed from 24 patients (48 feet) in the metatarsal pad area. No significant difference was found between the groups regarding MPP, PTI or contact area. For MPP, the highest value was found in CT/HT (140kPa ± 61) and the lowest in HV (112kPa ± 33). In PTI, the highest value was for CT/HT (2.0 Ns/cm2 ± 1.0) and the lowest for HV (1.3 Ns/cm2 ± 0.4). The %CA was highest in CT/HT/HV (95%) and lowest in NONE (70%). A new quantitative approach was presented, assessing the metatarsal pad pressure effect on its corresponding plantar area of the foot. Further studies are needed to identify the conditions in which a metatarsal pad affects different foot statuses with regard to plantar pressure.

Gait analysis of foot compensation in symptomatic Hallux Rigidus patients

BackgroundCompensatory motion of foot joints in hallux rigidus (HR) are not fully known. This study aimed to clarify the kinematic compensation within the foot and to detect whether this affects plantar pressure distribution. MethodsGait characteristics were assessed in 16 patients (16 feet) with HR and compared with 15 healthy controls (30 feet) with three-dimensional gait analysis by using the multi-segment Oxford Foot Model, measuring spatio-temporal parameters, joint kinematics and plantar pressure. ResultsHR subjects showed less hallux plantar flexion during midstance and less hallux dorsiflexion during push-off, while increased forefoot supination was detected during push-off. No significant differences in plantar pressure were detected. Step length was significantly smaller in HR subjects, while gait velocity was comparable between groups. ConclusionsHR significantly affects sagittal hallux motion, and the forefoot compensates by an increased supination during push-off. Despite this kinematic compensatory mechanism, no significant differences in plantar loading were detected.

Change of In-Shoe Plantar Pressure According to Types of Shoes (Flat Shoes, Running Shoes, and High Heels).

BackgroundThe type of footwear is one of several factors that affect foot pressure. Despite its usefulness in identifying pathology and preventing and treating foot-related diseases, the type of shoes has been investigated and compared in only a few studies. This study aimed to investigate differences in plantar pressure, induced by flat, running, and high-heeled shoes in healthy, young women.MethodsA total of 27 healthy women (27 feet) with a mean age of 21.5 ± 2.03 years were included in this study. Based on demographic data, radiologic measurements, clinical scores, temporal gait parameters, and kinematic parameters of gait, we confirmed the participants had normal feet. Then, pedobarographic data were measured by dividing each foot into seven regions to compare the three types of shoes. Peak plantar pressure and pressure-time integral were calculated using the Pedar-X system. The one-way analysis of variance and the Kruskal-Wallis test with Mann Whitney U-test were used for statistical analyses.ResultsRegarding the 7 regions of the foot, flat shoes resulted in a significantly higher pressure than running shoes in the hallux and lesser toes and the highest pressure in the metatarsal head (MTH) 3–5 and the hindfoot. In contrast, in the MTH 1 and MTH 2 regions, the high-heeled shoes had the highest measured pressure, followed by the flat shoes. Lastly, there was no high pressure in running shoes in any region except for the midfoot compared to the other shoes.ConclusionsIt can be inferred from our findings that flat and high-heeled shoes can generate a considerable burden on specific parts of the foot, which will aid in choosing appropriate shoes. Also, wearing running shoes places less burden on the overall foot.

Bare Foot and In-shoe Plantar Pressure in Diabetic Males and Females - Is There Difference?

PurposeHigh plantar pressure is one of the factors associated with foot ulceration in diabetic patients. High-risk limbs could eventually be identified through this approach. The study was conducted to evaluate the difference in the barefoot and in-shoe plantar pressure among diabetic males and females.Patients and MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted and purposive sampling was employed for the recruitment of subjects in King Abdullah walking center. The dynamic plantar pressure generated by each subject was recorded using “novel footprint software” and up to five successful trials were collected for each subject of right and left foot.ResultsThe mean age of female and male patients was 50.6 ± 13.4 and 46.07 ± 11.17, respectively. The mean difference between the weights was higher in males. The barefoot peak plantar pressure between gender in left limb was found significant. Moreover, the mean difference in plantar pressure at maximum concentration and maximum force of right and left limb between males and females was found statistically significant. The mean difference in in-shoe plantar pressure at maximum force of left limb between males and females was found statistically significant.ConclusionAs the prevalence of diabetes is increasing, the risk of plantar pressure also increasing simultaneously. The difference in plantar pressure among diabetic males and females is critically important as our study indicated that the bare foot and in-shoe plantar pressure was found higher in males than females as males had higher weight than females. Further longitudinal studies are required to be conducted in this context.

Foot and ankle biomechanics during walking in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

The foot and ankle complex undergoes significant structural and functional changes with advancing age. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to synthesize and critique the research literature pertaining to foot and ankle biomechanics while walking in young and older adults. Electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus and Embase) were searched from inception to April 2019 for cross-sectional studies which compared kinematics, kinetics and plantar pressure differences between young and older adults. Screening and data extraction were performed by two independent assessors, with disagreements resolved by consensus. A total of 39 articles underwent full-text screening, and 19 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included. Meta-analysis showed that older adults had less ankle joint plantar flexion (5 studies; weighted mean difference [WMD]: -5.15; 95 %CI: -6.47 to -3.83; P < 0.001) and less ankle joint power generation (6 studies; standardized mean difference [SMD]: -0.62; 95 %CI: -0.82 to -0.41; P < 0.001) during propulsion compared to young adults. These differences persisted in subgroup analyses comparing different walking speeds. Plantar pressure findings were highly variable due to differences in data collection protocols and meta-analysis was not possible. Older adults have unique foot and ankle kinematics and kinetics during walking characterized by reduced ankle joint plantarflexion and power generation during propulsion.

Changes in plantar pressure, contact area and contact time symmetry during the gait 4 weeks before and 12 and 24 weeks after unilateral total hip arthroplasty

BackgroundFoot to ground pressure changes in total hip arthroplasty patients' gait are not widely described, although they are sensitive to gait abnormalities and the distribution of plantar pressures may differ before and after the surgery. This study aimed to analyse longitudinally differences in plantar pressure during gait in total hip arthroplasty patients compared to healthy controls. MethodsEighteen males participated in this study. Eight males, who underwent unilateral total hip arthroplasty, participated at the data collection three times: 4 weeks before the surgery, 12 and 24 weeks after, and ten healthy controls. All participants were asked to walk over Emed platform. To compare differences between the affected and unaffected limbs, Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used. Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the difference between total hip arthroplasty patients and healthy controls. FindingsStatistically significant differences between the affected and unaffected limb were observed only during the preoperative measurement in peak pressure at MH4 area and in the contact area at MH4 and big toe. When comparing total hip arthroplasty patients and controls, a difference in the contact time at MH2, MH3 and MH4 areas 12 weeks after surgery and at MH2 and MH4 24 weeks after the surgery were observed. InterpretationThe shorter contact time at forefoot areas may indicate an alteration in the propulsive phase of the gait of both the affected limb and unaffected limb in total hip arthroplasty patients as a result of decreased terminal hip extension during the stance phase described in previous studies.

Long-term donor-site morbidity after thumb reconstruction with twisted-toe technique.

Traumatic thumb loss is aserious injury affecting patient´sability to work and participate in activities of daily life. The main goal for aplastic surgeon is to restore hand grip, often by microsurgical methods. However, patients should be informed of all effects associated with tissue harvesting. The aim of the study was to assess the impact on donor foot and gait cycle in patients who have undergone thumb reconstruction using twisted-toe technique modified by Kempný. Twelve patients participated in the study: all suffered athumb loss between the years 2003 and 2011 and the twisted-toe technique for thumb reconstruction was utilized. The changes in foot pressure distribution and lower extremity joint loading were evaluated. The differences in total maximal plantar pressure, pressure time integral, contact area, and maximum force between the affected and non-affected foot were statistically significant (P 0.1). No significant differences of temporal gait parameters between the affected and non-affected extremity were observed; however, statistically significant differences in kinetics parameters, frontal ankle and knee moments were detected. Donor limb functionality and anatomical disability were assessed using pedobarography systems and 3D-gait analysis. The recorded differences in plantar pressure distribution (increased pressure in I., IV. and V. metatarsal areas) and overload of the medial compartment of the knee joint were the most significant findings. Therefore, wearing individually adapted shoe insoles as prevention of osteoarthrosis might be beneficial for patients after thumb reconstruction by atwisted-toe technique.

Foot Arch and Plantar Pressure in the Age of 17-21 Years

Research on the plantar segment has not been widely carried out in Indonesia’s population, even though the plantar segment data will be essential in further research and therapy of plantar-related problems. Therefore, this research intends to describe the plantar profile: the foot arch and the plantar pressure difference between the right and left foot. This research applied a cross-sectional study. Subjects were recruited from the Faculty of Medicine students, Universitas Indonesia, class 2012, with inclusion criteria aged 17-21 years and normal gait. Meanwhile, the exclusion criteria consisted of having postural abnormalities, a history of neuromusculoskeletal disorders in the lower limbs, a history of fractures in the spine and legs, a history of surgery on the spine and legs, and refusing to participate in the study. Research subjects stood on a plantar scanner, conducted at the Anatomy Laboratory, the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia. The Mann-Whitney test was then used to analyze the difference in plantar pressure between the right and left foot. The results revealed that a hundred research subjects had a proportion of a low foot arch of 4%, a normal foot arch of 89%, and a high foot arch of 7%. The median right plantar pressure was 273.5 KPa, while the median left plantar pressure was 253.5 KPa. The Mann-Whitney test showed a p-value of 0.954 for the pressure difference between right and left foot. There was no plantar pressure difference between the right and left foot.

An exploration of changes in plantar pressure distributions during walking with standalone and supported lateral wedge insole designs

BackgroundLateral wedge insoles (LWI), standalone or with medial arch support (supported-LWI), have been thoroughly investigated for their effects on modifying gait biomechanics for people with knee osteoarthritis. However, plantar pressure distribution between these insole types has not been investigated and could provide insight towards insole prescription with concomitant foot symptoms taken into consideration.MethodsIn a sample of healthy individuals (n = 40), in-shoe plantar pressure was measured during walking with LWI, with or without medial arch support (variable- and uniform-stiffness designs), and a flat control insole condition. Pressure data from the plantar surface of the foot were divided into seven regions: medial/lateral rearfoot, midfoot, medial/central/lateral forefoot, hallux. Plantar pressure outcomes assessed were the medial-lateral pressure index (MLPI) for the whole foot, and the peak pressure, pressure-time integral (PTI), and contact area in each plantar region. Comfort in each insole condition was rated as a change relative to the flat control insole condition. Repeated-measures analyses of variance were calculated to compare the plantar pressure outcomes between insole conditions.ResultsRegionally, medial rearfoot and forefoot pressure were reduced by all wedged insoles, with the variable-stiffness supported-wedge showing greater reductions than the standalone wedge. Lateral rearfoot and forefoot pressure were reduced by both supported-LWI, but unchanged by the standalone wedge. In the midfoot, the standalone wedge maintained pressure but reduced regional contact area, while both supported-LWI increased midfoot pressure and contact area. All LWI increased the MLPI, indicating a lateral shift in plantar pressure distribution throughout the weightbearing phase of gait. Comfort ratings were not significantly different between insole conditions.ConclusionsRegional differences in plantar pressure may help determine an appropriate lateral wedge insole variation to avoid exacerbation of concomitant foot symptoms by minimizing pressure in symptomatic regions. Lateral shifts in plantar pressure distribution were observed in all laterally wedged conditions, including one supported-LWI that was previously shown to be biomechanically ineffective for modifying knee joint load distribution. Thus, shifts in foot centre of pressure may not be a primary mechanism by which LWI can modify knee joint load distribution for people with knee osteoarthritis.

A portable plantar pressure system: Specifications, design, and preliminary results.

In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in developing in-shoe foot plantar pressure systems. Although such devices are not novel, devising insole devices for gait analysis is still an important issue. The goal of this study is to develop a new portable system for plantar pressure distribution measurement based on a three-axis accelerometer. The portable system includes: PJRC Teensy 3.6 microcontroller with 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 microprocessor with a clock speed of 180MHz; HC-11 radio modules (transmitter and receiver); a battery; a fixing band; pressure sensors; MPU-9150 inertial navigation module; and FFC tape. The pressure insole is leather-based and consists of seven layers. It is divided into 16 areas and the outcome of the system is data concerning plantar pressure distribution under foot during gait. The system was tested on 22 healthy volunteer subjects, and the data was compared with a commercially available system: Medilogic. The SNR value for the proposed sensor is 28.27dB. For a range of pressure of 30-100 N, the sensitivity is 0.0066V/N while the linearity error is 0.05. The difference in plantar pressure from both the portable plantar pressure system and Medilogic is not statistically significant. The proposed system could be recommended for research applications both inside and outside of a typical gait laboratory.

Effect of trunk control training on plantar pressure in patients with lumbar disc herniation

Background/aims Chronic spinal disc disease leads to disorders in postural movement coordination. An incorrect asymmetrical movement pattern for lower limb loading impairs proprioception and deteriorates postural stability. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of trunk control training on the redistribution of plantar pressure to reduce the risk of posture sway while standing in patients with sciatica resulting from a herniated lumbar disc. Methods This study included 30 male and female patients with sciatica resulting from lumbar disc herniation, their ages ranged from 45–60 years. The patients were randomly assigned to two equal groups. The study group received posture stability training by using the Biodex Balance System in addition to a selected physical therapy programme. The control group received the selected physical therapy programme only. Results: The results revealed that in the study group, there was a significant increase of plantar pressure at the right and the left centre of heel, while there was a significant decrease of plantar pressure at the right and the left forefoot post treatment. In the control group, there was no significant difference in plantar pressure at the right and the left centre of the heel and forefoot post treatment. Conclusions: Trunk control training, in addition to the selected physical therapy programme, was more effective than only using the selected physical therapy programme to redistribute foot plantar pressure, which can reduce posture sway for patients with sciatica resulting from a herniated lumbar disc.

Variations in plantar pressure variables across elliptical trainers in older adults

BackgroundEllipticals are used to address walking and cardiorespiratory training goals of older adults, some of whom are at risk for foot injuries. Variations in joint kinematics and muscle demands when using different ellipticals could lead to plantar pressure differences. This study explored plantar pressure variables during gait and use of four ellipticals. MethodsPlantar pressures were recorded while 10 adults [68.1 (4.5) years] walked and used the True, Octane, Life Fitness, and SportsArt ellipticals. Repeated-measures ANOVAs (5 × 1) identified forefoot and heel differences across conditions. FindingsMaximum forefoot forces and peak pressures were significantly lower than walking for each elliptical condition with one exception (Life Fitness peak pressure). However, sustained elliptical pedal contact time contributed to forefoot pressure-time integrals and dosages (i.e., cumulative pressure during one minute of activity) not varying significantly amongst elliptical and walking conditions. Heel maximum forces and peak pressures were significantly lower than walking during all elliptical conditions except SportsArt. Heel contact time on SportsArt and Octane exceeded walking, and SportsArt heel contact time exceeded Life Fitness. Heel pressure-time integral was greater on SportsArt compared to walking, Life Fitness, and True. Sports Art heel dosage exceeded Life Fitness and True. InterpretationWhile elliptical training's sustained double limb support diminished maximal forces and peak pressures under the forefoot and heel compared to walking, each ellipticals' pressure-time integral and dosage were not significantly lower than walking. These findings point to the importance of carefully initiating elliptical training programs to minimize tissue injury, particularly if sensory neuropathy is present.

The effect of match fatigue in elite badminton players using plantar pressure measurements and the implications to injury mechanisms

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in plantar pressure under the lead and trail foot between two lunge tasks to the net in the dominant (LD) and non-dominant (LND) directions, and to explore how fatigue affects the plantar pressure patterns whilst performing movements before and after a competitive match. Peak and mean pressure were measured with the Biofoot-IBV in-shoe system from five repetitions of each task, with sensors positioned under the calcaneus, midfoot and phalanges on the lead and trail foot. Data were collected pre and immediately post-playing an official first national league competition match. The study was conducted with a sample of thirteen first league badminton players. A 2 × 2 repeated ANOVA found significant differences between the two tasks and between pre- and post-match (fatigued state). Players also had different foot pressure distributions for the LD and LND tasks, which indicated a difference in loading strategy. In a fatigued state, the plantar pressure shifted to the medial aspect of the midfoot in the trail limb, indicating a reduction in control and a higher injury risk during non-dominant lunge tasks.

Influence of the playing surface on changes of direction and plantar pressures during an agility test in youth futsal players

The ability to effect a change of direction (COD) when performing high-speed actions is essential in team sports like futsal. Nevertheless, the interaction effect of sports surfaces on this ability remains unknown. This research aimed to analyse the plantar pressures and time performance of 15 youth futsal players when performing CODs on two playing surfaces with different mechanical properties. The shock absorption and vertical deformation of one synthetic flooring surface and one wooden flooring surface were assessed. CODs were evaluated using a modified version of the Agility T-Test, while total time of the test, time of CODs, and plantar pressure in CODs were all recorded. The wooden flooring surface displayed higher values of shock absorption (35.70% ± 2.87%) and vertical deformation (2.77 ± 0.38 mm) compared with the synthetic flooring (p < 0.01). Faster CODs were performed on the wooden flooring than on the synthetic flooring (−0.05 s, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.10 to −0.007, effect size [ES]: 0.07, p < 0.05), but no differences in total test time were found (p > 0.05). Finally, no differences in plantar pressures by playing surface were found. In sum, the differences in the mechanical properties of the two futsal surfaces affected the performance of futsal players in the modified agility test. However, these differences were not great enough to generate different plantar pressures on players, probably due to playerś own adaptations.