Foot Pressure Distribution Research Articles

Comparisons of ground reaction force between successful and unsuccessful lifts in snatch and clean-and-jerk in weightlifting

<p>目的：利用符合舉重運動特性的單軸測力平台，探討菁英選手在抓舉與挺舉時，成功與失敗地面反作用力參數之差異。方法：11名大專舉重選手為本研究參與者。參與者進行符合正式比賽規定的抓舉與挺舉動作時，雙腳需分別站立於長2公尺寬1公尺的舉重專用測力平台。每位參與者先完成抓舉再進行挺舉，每次試舉過程利用測力平台收集地面反作用力，並計算各階段力量峰值、發力率、壓力中心前後位移、雙腳寬度距離、右腳力量比例，再進行差異比較。結果：成功抓舉在第一拉期力量峰值、接槓時間顯著大於失敗；高比例的參與者，在接槓期力量峰值亦小於失敗。成功挺舉在上搏接槓期力量峰值顯著小於失敗。結論：失敗最高的階段發生在接槓期。抓舉應提高第一拉期的力量，以爭取更多接槓時間。接槓期應減少負荷力量；在上挺接槓分腿支撐時，可將槓鈴與壓力中心向後移動，並維持壓力中心接近於雙腳跨距中間偏前的位置。舉重專用測力平台能全程給予選手發力方式的回饋，有利於修正技術。</p> <p> </p><p>Purpose: To explore the differences in ground reaction force parameters between successful and unsuccessful lifts during the snatch and clean-and-jerk using an internally developed uniaxial force platform. Methods: Eleven elite college-level weightlifters were recruited in this study. They were asked to stand on a 2m1m force platform to perform the snatch and clean-and-jerk with self-selected weights by following the official competition rules. The maximal total ground reaction force (vGRF), rate of force development, the center of pressure, feet distance, and force distribution of the right foot were calculated and compared across different phases. Results: In the snatch, the peak vGRF of the first pull and the catching time in successful lifts were significantly higher than in unsuccessful ones. Moreover, the peak vGRF of catching in successful lifts was lower than in unsuccessful lifts. In successful clean-and-jerk, the peak vGRF of catching during clean in successful attempts was lower than in unsuccessful lifts. Conclusion: The phase with the highest failure rate occurred during the catch phase. In the snatch, increasing the force during the first pull may allow for more time in the catching phase. It is also recommended that the loading force should be reduced during the catching phase. In the split jerk, results showed moving the barbell and the center of pressure backward while maintaining the center of pressure slightly forward of the midpoint between the feet can improve stability. It is recommended that during weightlifting training, the internally developed force platform serves as a valuable tool to provide feedback on biomechanical indicators such as force development and help coaches and athletes refine weightlifting techniques in real-time.</p> <p> </p>

Surgical management of severe planovalgus foot deformity in children with generalised joint hypermobility

BackgroundThis study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of calcaneal lengthening osteotomy (CLO) and double arthrodesis of the talonavicular and calcaneocuboid joints (DA) for correcting planovalgus foot deformity exclusively in patients with generalised joint hypermobility. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 29 feet in 17 consecutive patients who underwent either CLO or DA. The mean age at surgery was 11.3 ± 2.3 years, and the mean follow-up duration was 7.7 ± 3.2 years. Preoperative and final follow-up radiographs and dynamic foot-pressure measurements were analysed. ResultsBoth operations significantly improved the radiographic parameters, except for the lateral talocalcaneal angle in the CLO group. Pedobarographic study demonstrated an elevation of the medial longitudinal arch and an improved foot-pressure distribution after both surgeries. The plantar pressure in the lateral forefoot significantly increased only in the DA group, while the pressures exerted on the medial forefoot and hindfoot and the arch index improved only in the CLO group. ConclusionsBoth CLO and DA effectively improve the foot alignments of the deformity in patients with generalised joint hypermobility. However, differences were observed in the changes in the lateral talocalcaneal angle and plantar pressure distribution between the two procedures. Level of evidenceTherapeutic Level III.

Efficacy of customized insoles in the distribution of the diabetic foot pressure: A randomized and controlled clinical trial

BackgroundDiabetic neuropathy is a condition that can be early diagnosed in DM type 2 patients. PurposeEvaluate the influence of customized insoles in the plantar pressure of diabetic neuropathy patients when compared to the sham group at baseline and after three and six months. MethodsREBEC (Clinical Trial Brazilian Register) (http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/) RBR-5NQK4K, is a randomized, controlled, double-blinded clinical trial was carried out with a 46-volunteer sample in which participants were randomized to be directed to the intervention and control groups. This study was developed following the standards set for randomized clinical trials (CONSORT). The primary outcome was the analysis of plantar pressure points on the diabetic neuropathy patients' feet using podobarography in the intervention and control group patients. The secondary outcome was the foot functionality in activities of daily living assessed using the FAAM questionnaire in a 6-month follow-up period. ResultsNo significant differences were found between the groups regarding the primary and secondary outcomes in the 3rd or in the 6th month. ConclusionIs not possible to state that insoles provided patients with a significant improvement of the footstep structure in the intervention group in comparison to the control group in diabetic neuropathy patients.

Changes in Gait Parameters and the Podal System Depending on the Presence of a Specific Malocclusion Type in School-Age Children

Background: The correspondence between various aspects of human postural parameters and the spatial relation of the jaws is of increasing interest among scientists. Emerging research suggests that the stomatognathic system and posture play, in a broad sense, significant roles. Objectives: The aim of the study was to analyze the relationship between various malocclusion types and gait parameters, the distribution of foot pressure on the ground, and body balance. Methods: The study involved 155 patients aged 12-16. The subjects were divided into groups according to their malocclusion—Angle’s class II (n = 32), Canine class II (n = 31), and Overbite (n = 46). The control group (n = 46) comprised children not demonstrating any defects. The study data were collected by direct observation of the oral cavity. Gait analysis was carried out using the Wiva® Science sensor, and the distribution of foot forces on the ground and body balance was determined via the E.P.S R/1 pedobarographic mat. The non-parametric Mann–Whitney U test was applied for statistical analysis. Results: Analysis of the results obtained showed statistically significant differences in left step duration (p = 0.042) and the duration of the right step (p = 0.021), as well as the projection of the body’s center of gravity on the left foot (p = 0.027). Conclusions: Distoocclusion in the anterior part of the mandible may cause different positioning of the head and neck, as well as varying tension of the muscles, further leading to balance disorders while walking.

Surface potential modulation for improved mechanical energy harvesting and sensing in 3D printed biopolymer thermoelectret

This study presents the development of a special class of electret known as thermoelectret, made with polylactic acid (PLA), prepared via 3D printing technology followed by a heat-assisted corona discharged technique. We show that the bimodal surface polarity (i.e., ± 1 kV) is possible to achieve over the top and bottom surfaces of 3D printed PLA thermoelectret that enable a wide range of potential applications, such as mechanical energy harvesting to wearable biomedical sensors. Besides this, the enhanced surface potential leads to a giant longitudinal piezoelectric coefficient (d33) of 350 ± 15 pC/N, which is typically 10 times higher than the best-known piezoelectric polymer, polyvinylidene fluoride-trifluoro ethylene (PVDF-TrFE). To utilize this benefit, a 3D-printed thermoelectret-based mechanical energy harvester (3D-TEH) has been developed that delivers an outstanding power density of ⁓ 25 mW/m2, which makes it a suitable candidate for the self-power pressure sensor. As a proof of concept, we have demonstrated that 3D-TEH is capable of recording the bone-joints motions, coughing action, and human foot-pressure distribution that signify its potential application as a self-powered bio-medical sensor.

Correlations Between Shoulder and Hip Joints in Professional Male Rugby Players and Their Impact on Body Balance

Introduction: The game of rugby is becoming more and more popular, despite the fact that it is a collision sport in which skill plays a large role. In the training process, great importance is placed on the development of general physical fitness, in particular, on strength, power and muscular endurance.Aim: The aim of this study is to analyse the co-organisation between range of motion, body balance, power and speed of the kick and throw in men practicing rugby.Material and methods: The study involved 19 players training rugby on the Extraleague team of MKS Ogniwo Sopot, with an average age of 27.325.49. The Inbody 270 body composition analyser, the EPSR1 mat measuring the distribution of foot pressure on the ground, the WiVA sensor for measuring the range of motion and the Tendo Unit for measuring the explosive force were used to carry out testing.Results: The results indicate that people with a higher level of balance perform a throw with more power and speed. It was also shown that the range of motion in the upper limb is directly proportional to the range of motion in the hip joint.Conclusions: In the sport of rugby, flexion and extension movements of both the shoulder and hip joints are performed alternately. Based on the results, it can be concluded that in rugby athletes, balance training deserves special attention, which may translate into greater speed and power of the throw during a game. At the same time, an increase in the range of motion when flexing the arm and an increase in the pressure on the forefoot were noted, and the inversely proportional relationship between the COP area of the whole body and the heel area of the left foot may indicate the transfer of body mass by the tested players to the metatarsal and forefoot.

Is Morton's neuroma in a pes planus or pes cavus foot lead to differences in pressure distribution and gait parameters?

Morton's neuroma (MN) is a compressive neuropathy of the common digital plantar nerve causing forefoot pain. Foot posture and altered plantar pressure distribution have been identified as predispoing factors, however no studies have compared individuls with different foot postures with MN. Thus, we aimed to compare the effect of MN on spatiotemporal gait parameters and foot-pressure distribution in individuals with pes planus and pes cavus. Thirty-eight patients with unilateral MN were evaluated between June and August 2021. Nineteen patients with bilateral pes planus and 19 age and gender-matched patients with pes cavus who had no prior surgery were recruited. A Zebris FDM–THM–S treadmill system (Zebris Medical GmbH, Germany) was used to evaluate step length, stride length, step width, step time, stride time, cadence, velocity, foot-pressure distribution, force and whole stance phase, loading response, mid stance, pre-swing and swing phase percentages. There were no significant differences between the groups in spatiotemporal gait parameters (p > 0.05). Patients with pes planus displayed the following results for step length (49.36 ± 8.38), step width (9.05 ± 2.12), stance phase percentage (65.92 ± 2.11), swing phase percentage (34.08 ± 2.12), gait speed (2.96 ± 0.55), and cadence (100.57 ± 8.84). In contrast, patients with pes cavus displayed the following results for step length (49.06 ± 8.37), step width (8.10 ± 2.46), stance phase percentage (64.96 ± 1.61), swing phase percentage (34.79 ± 1.60), gait speed (2.95 ± 0.65), and cadence (99.73 ± 13.81). Foot-pressure distribution values showed no differences were detected in force, forefoot, and rearfoot pressure distribution, except for midfoot force (p < 0.05). The forefoot, midfoot, and rearfoot pressure values for the pronated group were 32.14 ± 10.90, 13.80 ± 3.03, and 22.78 ± 5.10, and for the supinated group were 33.50 ± 11.49, 14.23 ± 3.11 and 24.93 ± 6.52. MN does not significantly affect spatiotemporal gait parameters or foot-pressure distribution in patients with pes cavus or pes planus.

Dental Malocclusion in Mixed Dentition Children and Its Relation to Podal System and Gait Parameters.

Dental malocclusion is an increasingly frequent stomatognathic disorder in children and adolescents nowadays. The purpose of this study was to confirm or deny the correlations between body posture and malocclusion. In the study, gait, distribution of foot pressure on the ground, and body balance were examined. The research group consisted of 76 patients aged 12-15 years. The research group was obtained from patients attending periodic dental check-ups at Healthcare Center Your Health EL who agreed to participate in the study. The patients were divided into two groups without malocclusion and with malocclusion, using Angle classification, which enabled determination of the anteroposterior relationship of the first molars. The pedobarographic mat was used to analyze the distribution of foot forces on the ground, the diagnostic system Wiva® Science was used for gait analysis, and Kineod 3D was used for posture analysis. The Shapiro-Wilk test used for analysis showed inconsistency with normal distribution for all measurement parameters. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for the analysis, and the significance level was set at p ≤ 0.05. Examination of the relationship between stabilometric and gait parameters showed that the position of the mandible in relation to maxilla has an important effect on gait rhythm, gait cycle duration, and right step duration time. Patients diagnosed with malocclusion showed high-speed walking rhythm in comparison to patients with Angle's class I (p = 0.010). The duration of the whole gait cycle (p = 0.007) and the duration of right step (p = 0.027) were prolonged in students without orthodontic disorders compared to the other. The conducted study proved that there is correlation between the presence of a stomatognathic disorder and gait cycle parameters. There is a statistically noticeable correspondence between the position of the mandible in relation to maxilla and walking rhythm, gait cycle duration, and right step duration time. Namely, students who presented malocclusion had a high-speed walking rhythm and decreased duration of the gait cycle and of the right step. On the other hand, students without disorders (Angle's class I) showed low-speed rhythm and increased duration of the gait cycle and of the right step in comparison to Angle's classes II and III.

Surrogate optimization of a lattice foot orthotic

Background:Additive manufacturing enables to print patient-specific Foot Orthotics (FOs). In FOs featuring lattice structures, the variation of the cell’s dimensions provides a locally variable stiffness to meet the therapeutic needs of each patient. In an optimization problem, however, using explicit Finite Element (FE) simulation of lattice FOs with converged 3D elements is computationally prohibitive. This paper presents a framework to efficiently optimize the cell’s dimensions of a honeycomb lattice FO for flat foot condition. Methods:We built a surrogate based on shell elements whose mechanical properties were computed by the numerical homogenization technique. The model was submitted to a static pressure distribution of a flat foot and it predicted the displacement field for a given set of geometrical parameters of the honeycomb FO. This FE simulation was considered as a black-box and a derivative-free optimization solver was employed. The cost function was defined based on the difference between the predicted displacement by the model against a therapeutic target displacement. Results:Using the homogenized model as a surrogate significantly accelerated the stiffness optimization of the lattice FO. The homogenized model could predict the displacement field 78 times faster than the explicit model. When 2000 evaluations were required in an optimization problem, the computational time was reduced from 34 days to 10 hours using the homogenized model rather than explicit model. Moreover, in the homogenized model, there was no need to re-create and re-mesh the insole’s geometry in each iteration of the optimization. It was only required to update the effective properties. Conclusion:The presented homogenized model can be used as a surrogate within an optimization framework to customize cell’s dimensions of honeycomb lattice FO in a computationally efficient manner.

Baropodometric comparison of orthopedic footwear to assess the effectiveness of pairs of orthopedic shoes for reducing the forefoot pressure.

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the distribution of foot pressure with the most frequently used orthopedic shoes and demonstrate the effect of offloading philosophy on the pressure distributions of rocker bottom or heel support shoes applied unilaterally or bilaterally.Materials and methods Three bilateral and four unilateral, a total of seven shoe designs with sensors included in the insole were tested by the same subject in a standard acquisition protocol. Two of the unilateral and one of the bilateral shoes had heel support, while others had a rocker bottom design. A descriptive analysis was performed for each shoe and compared to a reference value obtained from a standard shoe.Results Shoes with an offloading heel resulted in a greater reduction in pressure on the forefoot than other models. All other shoes increased pressure on the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Heel offloading models performed the best in forefoot offloading, and bilateral heel offloading shoes performed the best in first metatarsal offloading, with the highest scores of 83% and 82%, respectively.Conclusion This study showed that orthopedic shoes sold in pairs could reduce pressure on the forefoot at a comparable level to unilateral shoes. It supports their use to limit the disadvantages of single orthopedic shoes, such as limb length discrepancies.

Effect of Thoracic Kyphosis and Lumbar Lordosis on the Distribution of Ground Reaction Forces on the Feet.

IntroductionIn clinical practice, foot load receptors are very important in shaping the correct vertical posture and optimal equilibrium reactions. They are so important that stimulating them gives measurable effects in improving both balance and posture. Plantar pressure distribution is an important parameter that provides information on changes in a person’s posture, also during gait.AimThe aim of the work is to assess the effect of thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis on the distribution of ground reaction forces on the feet.Materials and MethodsA total of 211 subjects aged 8–12 were examined. Body posture and distribution of ground reaction forces on the feet were assessed using the following parameters: thoracic kyphosis angle, lumbar lordosis angle, maximum pressure (static), average pressure (static), foot surface, distribution of foot pressure, maximum pressure (dynamic), time load (dynamic). DIERS formetric and DIERS pedoscan methods were used to measure the parameters.ResultsThe level of the kyphosis angle correlated positively with the percentage distribution of forefoot load in static conditions. The level of lordosis angle correlated positively with the foot surface and forefoot load. Positive correlation of the lordosis angle is also related to its connection with the difference in leg load during gait. A broader cause and effect view of body posture defects and the distribution of ground reaction forces on the feet can affect a more complete assessment of the correlation between these variables, contributing to more effective treatment of any disorders of the described phenomena.ConclusionThe size of thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis affects the distribution of ground reaction forces on the feet. The effect of lumbar lordosis has a linear value in relation to percentage distribution of forefoot and heel loads.

Deep learning approach to estimate foot pressure distribution in walking with application for a cost-effective insole system

BackgroundFoot pressure distribution can be used as a quantitative parameter for evaluating anatomical deformity of the foot and for diagnosing and treating pathological gait, falling, and pressure sores in diabetes. The objective of this study was to propose a deep learning model that could predict pressure distribution of the whole foot based on information obtained from a small number of pressure sensors in an insole.MethodsTwenty young and twenty older adults walked a straight pathway at a preferred speed with a Pedar-X system in anti-skid socks. A long short-term memory (LSTM) model was used to predict foot pressure distribution. Pressure values of nine major sensors and the remaining 90 sensors in a Pedar-X system were used as input and output for the model, respectively. The performance of the proposed LSTM structure was compared with that of a traditionally used adaptive neuro-fuzzy interference system (ANFIS). A low-cost insole system consisting of a small number of pressure sensors was fabricated. A gait experiment was additionally performed with five young and five older adults, excluding subjects who were used to construct models. The Pedar-X system placed parallelly on top of the insole prototype developed in this study was in anti-skid socks. Sensor values from a low-cost insole prototype were used as input of the LSTM model. The accuracy of the model was evaluated by applying a leave-one-out cross-validation.ResultsCorrelation coefficient and relative root mean square error (RMSE) of the LSTM model were 0.98 (0.92 ~ 0.99) and 7.9 ± 2.3%, respectively, higher than those of the ANFIS model. Additionally, the usefulness of the proposed LSTM model for fabricating a low-cost insole prototype with a small number of sensors was confirmed, showing a correlation coefficient of 0.63 to 0.97 and a relative RMSE of 12.7 ± 7.4%.ConclusionsThis model can be used as an algorithm to develop a low-cost portable smart insole system to monitor age-related physiological and anatomical alterations in foot. This model has the potential to evaluate clinical rehabilitation status of patients with pathological gait, falling, and various foot pathologies when more data of patients with various diseases are accumulated for training.

Does the way of weight-bearing matter? Single-leg and both-leg standing radiographic and pedobarographic differences in pediatric flatfoot

BackgroundAn exact definition is lacking for the term “weight-bearing” or different standing modalities when implementing foot radiographs for children and adults; moreover, only few studies have investigated the relationship between radiographic and pedobarographic measurements. Research questionWe hypothesized that the method of weight-bearing in single-leg and both-leg standing positions could influence the measurement results in radiographs and the distribution of foot pressure. MethodsThis prospective study evaluated 33 children (66 feet) with flexible flatfoot deformities scheduled for subtalar screw arthroereisis surgery. Radiographs in the lateral and anteroposterior (AP) views were assessed independently in the single-leg and both-leg standing positions. Static pedobarography was performed as that for measuring weight-bearing. Standardized radiographic angles and pedobarographic data were analysed and correlated. ResultsThere were differences in radiographic measurements between the single-leg and both-leg standing positions, including the AP talocalcaneal angle (p = 0.032), AP talus-first metatarsal base angle (p = 0.003), AP talus-first metatarsal angle (p = 0.003), lateral calcaneal pitch angle (p = 0.001), talus-first metatarsal index (p = 0.004), and talocalcaneal index (p = 0.029). Moreover, differences between these two standing modalities were found in most of the static pedobarographic data, including the contact area (p = 0001), maximal force (p = 0.001), and peak pressure (p = 0.007). Overall, medial foot pressure increased more in both-leg standing than in the single-leg standing position, whereas radiographic measurements showed a more pronounced flatfoot deformity in the single-leg standing position. The AP talus-first metatarsal angle was the only angle or index with a significant association to some pedobarographic measurements in both standing modalities. SignificanceAs there are significant differences between single-leg standing and both-leg standing radiographic and static pedobarographic values, observers have to be precise in the definition of “weight-bearing” to gain reproducible and comparable study values in children and adults. We recommend acquiring both-leg standing foot radiographs because children with flexible flatfeet can stand more steadily in this position than in the single-leg standing position.

Piezoresistive-Based Gait Monitoring Technique for the Recognition of Knee Osteoarthritis Patients

Knee osteoarthritis (Knee OA) is a degenerative disease that often perplexes the elderly and the whole society, and its timely recognition receives interest worldwide. However, traditional imaging examinations cannot reflect dynamic function nor implement long-term monitoring. To address this issue, this article suggests a piezoresistive-based gait monitoring method to recognize patients with Knee OA by assessing the plantar pressure signals during the subjects’ walking, which is mobile, wearable, low-cost, and convenient. Eighteen subjects diagnosed with Knee OA and twenty-two control subjects participated in the experiment. Considering the asymmetric pressure distribution in feet and the landing habits of Knee OA patients, the plantar surface was split into eight areas, calculating the contact time and maximum force of each area in a gait cycle. Using these characteristics to train, the support vector machine (SVM) reached an accuracy of 93.15%, a precision of 92.39%, and a recall of 92.79%. Furthermore, a prediction model was proposed for the application that aggregates all the results in one test and gives a more accurate result, and the classification accuracy for individuals in the ensemble model is 90.90%. Our technique fills the vacancy of the recognition of patients with Knee OA based on wearable instruments. It provides ideas for intelligent healthcare, which benefits potential Knee OA patients’ early diagnosis and treatment.

Podiatric and Stabilographic Examinations of the Effects of School Bag Carrying in Children Aged 11 to 15 Years

Background: The issues raised in this study were inspired by the concern for the musculoskeletal status of school children. Carrying excess weight in the form of a school bag in this period of life affects the correct body posture of school children. The aim of the study was to analyze the influence of school bags on the feet force distribution on the ground and postural balance in children of both sexes between 11 and 15 years of age. Methods: The study investigated the distribution of pressure forces on the sole of the foot and its arch. The center of pressure for both feet and the whole body was also examined. The participants were 100 students from primary schools in Gdańsk, aged 11 to 15, including 54 girls and 46 boys. The research used a podobarographic platform that measures the distribution of foot pressure to the ground. The examinations included two measurements: in the first, the children stood on the platform in a natural position. Then, a 5 kg backpack was put on and they stood on the platform again. Results: Statistically significant differences were found in the distribution of the foot pressure on the ground in the left metatarsus (p = 0.000) and heel (p = 0.000) after putting on the backpack in both girls and boys. However, in the right foot, these differences concerned the metatarsal area (p = 0.001). The results of the balance tests were only statistically significant in the group of girls in the right foot sway area (p = 0.020). Conclusions: The school backpack load led to an increase in the values of the heel and metatarsal area measured in the students, causing its flattening.

Investigation of the effect of ergonomic flooring on the distribution of foot pressure in long standing

Introduction: Many occupations require prolonged standing during exercise, which is one of the most important causes of musculoskeletal disorders, causing pain and discomfort in the back, lower limbs, and especially the soles of the feet, resulting in improper distribution of pressure in the soles of the feet. Epidemiological studies also show a strong association between prolonged standing and pressure on the lower back and lower limbs. One of the ergonomic solutions to reduce the problems caused by long-standing activities is to correct the surface under the fee. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of ergonomic flooring and conventional flooring on the distribution of foot pressure in healthy individuals; based on that, the effect of using ergonomic flooring in comparison with conventional flooring, more appropriate distribution, and reduction of pressure in the sole can be determined. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was performed on 16 students with a mean age of 27.87±7.31 and a body mass index of 24.15±4.31. According to previous comparative studies and data analysis obtained from pilot samples, by considering the 95% confidence interval, the samples were determined by the convenience sampling method. Each participant was measured at eight anatomical points for one hour at two different surfaces of ergonomic and ordinary floor. Foot pressure distribution using a pedar-x device while the volunteers were barefoot. Data were analyzed by paired t-test and Wilcoxon using SPSS software. Results: This study showed that the ergonomic flooring significantly reduced the mean pressure on the plantar pressure (p≤0.001). Also, there is a significant difference in the mean pressure of left and right legs in different anatomical points when using ordinary surfaces and flooring (p≤0.001). Conclusion: There is a difference between the distribution of plantar pressure in ergonomic flooring and conventional flooring. Ergonomic flooring has better distribution than the ground and reduces the pressure on the sole during static activities.

Distribution of Plantar Pressure in Soccer Players.

(1) Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in the static and dynamic distribution of foot pressure on the ground and to investigate the relationships between body mass index (BMI) and mean variables of plantar pressure between soccer players and their non-athlete peers. (2) Methods: The study involved 18 first-division Polish soccer players and 30 non-athlete physiotherapy students. The research experiment was conducted using the FreeMed platform. Basic descriptive statistics were calculated to summarize the variables. Additionally, in the static and dynamic tests, Spearman’s rank correlations between body mass index (BMI) and plantar load were calculated. (3) Results: Statistically significant differences between groups were observed in the loading of the dominant limb. A statistically significant correlation between BMI and loading of both limbs was found in the static test and between BMI and loading of the dominant limb in the dynamic test. (4) Conclusions: The baropodometric mat used in our study helped determine the plantar pressure distribution of soccer players and their non-athlete peers. Correlation analysis revealed that BMI was only associated with the mean plantar pressure of the dominant limb in the control group. Further research on a larger group of athletes is needed to determine how much sporting activity may affect the development to modifications within feet in soccer players.

The Effects of National Academy of Sports Medicine and Sahrmann Training on Foot Pressure Distribution in Flexed Posture Students

Objectives: Flexed posture with Hyperkyphosis (HKP) and Forward Head Posture (FHP), due to changes in the spine alignment, lead to the displacement of the center of pressure and increased postural sways; ultimately, this condition disrupts the distribution of foot pressure. Therefore, the present study aimed to compare the effects of 8 weeks of National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and Sharman training on Foot Pressure Distribution (FPD) in flexed posture students. Methods: In this double-blind randomized clinical trial, 30 students with HKP and FHP were randomly assigned in two groups of NASM and Sahrmann (n=15/group). The angle of HKP and FHP were evaluated by Spinal Mouse and Image J software. FPD was also assessed by a Payatek foot scaner (PT-scan) device. The obtained data were analyzed in SPSS using one-way Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). Results: The present research results suggested that both intervention groups presented significant differences in reducing the angle of HKP (P&lt;0.001) and FHP (P&lt;0.001), COP minor axis length (P&lt;0.05), COP major axis length (P&lt;0.001), COP path length (P&lt;0.001), the standard deviation of internal-external sways (P&lt;0.001), and standard deviation of anterior-posterior sways (P&lt;0.001); however, t there was no significant difference concerning the COP area (P&gt;0.05) and symmetry index between the two legs (P&gt;0.05). Discussion: Both provided corrective exercises reduced HKP and FHP angles and reduced postural sways. However, Sahrmann intervention with adjusted muscle stiffness and reduced electromechanical latency was more effective than NASM exercises in improving postural control and foot pressure symmetry index.

Effect of resistance training on posture control components in women with diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Background: Peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes which can lead to impaired postural control. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of 12-week resistance training on balance, risk of falling and distribution of foot pressure in diabetic women with peripheral neuropathy. Methods: In a randomized clinical trial, 30 women with type 2 diabetes and diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy were randomly assigned into experimental (n=15) and control (n=15) groups. The experimental group underwent a circuit resistance training program with 50 of one-maximum repetition, 3 -sessions per week over 12 weeks. Before and following the experimental period static and dynamic balance, posture control and risk of falling were assessed. Results: Static and dynamic balance indices improved following the exercise intervention (P=0.0001). Moreover, risk of falling index decreased in the experimental group compared to control condition (P=0.0001). However, foot pressure distribution was unchanged following exercise intervention (P&gt;0.05). Conclusion: Circuit training improved balance and risk of falling in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy. Therefore, they are suggested to include circuit training as a safe non-pharmacological intervention to improve balance and walking and to prevent falling.

Study on the forming and sensing properties of laser-sintered TPU/CNT composites for plantar pressure sensors

Conductive polymer composites (CPCs) combining with specific microstructures (micropores, microcracks, etc.) can exhibit unique resistance response changes, which can be widely regarded as an effective way to improve sensing performance. This study takes advantage of the characteristics of the formation of tiny pores between crystal grains during selective laser sintering (SLS) processing to introduce a microporous structure into the thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)/carbon nanotube (CNT) sensing element to prepare a three-dimensional porous conductive structure. The effect of the SLS process on sensing sensitivity, accuracy, and density was studied, and its sensing and forming mechanism were discussed. By adjusting SLS process parameters to control the performance of porous structure sensor elements, a final TPU/CNT sensor element with a wide pressure detection range, high sensitivity, a fast response time, and good stability and durability was developed. Finally, the optimal performance of the developed flexible pressure sensor was successfully used to detect the pressure distribution of the human foot. This study provided a simple and effective research method to develop high-performance flexible pressure sensors.