Plantar Pressure Distribution Research Articles

Comparison of in-shoe plantar pressure between Korean combat boots and running shoes

IntroductionCombat boots are special shoes designed for soldiers to wear during activities in rough terrain, such as long marches or military training. Combat boots have been known to cause high...

Induced fatigue impact on plantar pressure in females with mild hallux valgus

Fatigue has been established to change plantar pressure distribution, yet its impact on hallux valgus (HV) patients, who exhibit morphological and biomechanical changes in the foot, remains insufficiently studied. Twenty-eight female participants, comprising 16 with mild HV and 12 healthy controls, were recruited. Plantar pressures were recorded pre- and post-fatigue using the Footscan platform during self-selected-speed walking trials, fatigue protocol was performed on a treadmill. Foot was segmented into 10 anatomical regions for calculating parameters including maximal force, peak pressure, impulse, contact duration, contact area, and force time-series, alongside assessing the distribution of medial and lateral contact forces (Foot balance) across the groups. During post-fatigue, patients with mild HV demonstrated adaptive changes in plantar pressure distinct from healthy controls, with significant reductions in maximal force, peak pressure, and impulse in the M1 and M2 regions and increases in the M3–M5 regions. In contrast, the control group exhibited an opposite pattern, concentrating pressure in the M1 and M2 regions post-fatigue. The force time-series analysis revealed significant disparities between HV patients and controls, particularly in the M4 and M5 regions, where HV patients showed a less pronounced and lower passive peak in forces. Results show that women with mild HV demonstrate adaptive changes in plantar pressure post-fatigue, distinctly different from healthy individuals, aiding in preventive strategies for fatigue-induced foot injuries for HV patients.

Plantar pressure distribution using personalised 3D printed lattice insoles with distributed stiffness

This work presents a proof-of-concept study on the use of additive manufacturing for developing customised lattice topology insoles, with the aim of redistributing plantar pressures. Four cubic lattice structures were applied to five sections of the moulded insole contours, which were based in 3D foot scans using Ansys material designer to predict material properties. The variation of the elastic modulus across the sections was controlled via the lattice cell structure volume ratio. The insole lattice structures were made from elastic photosensitive liquid resin resulting in flexible parts. A commercially available shoe was used to compare pressure distribution between the original and customised insole. Plantar pressure distribution and peak pressures were measured during standing, walking, and running. Pressure redistribution varied between insole conditions. During standing, the customised insole reduced peak pressure at the left heel, while the right foot experienced increased peak pressure compared to the control insole. Substantial peak pressure reduction was observed on the left foot during walking and running whilst the reduction was much less for the right foot. The study highlights the potential of additive manufacturing for cost-effective, accurate, and personalized insole production, offering material control and pressure redistribution benefits for various applications like injury prevention and rehabilitation.

Exposure of Undergraduate Nursing Students to Standing Environments: A Longitudinal Study on Plantar Force and Pressure Distribution.

Understanding the link between plantar force, pressure, and foot discomfort is important for nursing students' well-being, given the prevalence of foot and ankle musculoskeletal disorders among nurses. Assessing these factors can inform tailored self-care interventions, supporting holistic nursing education. To assess the plantar force and pressure distribution of third-year nursing students at baseline and after 5months of exposure to a clinical setting. A prospective cohort study in a Portuguese nursing school measured changes in podiatric profile at 5months, including peak pressure, maximum force, and contact area. Elevated mean peak pressure in the heel correlated positively with maximum force and contact area. Negative correlations were found between the contact area and edema. Peak pressure correlated positively with thigh pain, indicating pressure transfer to metatarsal heads. The findings underscore the importance of integrating ergonomic education into nursing curricula and raising awareness of self-care interventions.

Effects of Homologous instrument assisted mobilization (HIM) on ankle movement, gait-related muscle activation, and plantar pressure distribution in ankle dorsiflexion syndrome: A randomized single control trial.

While the limited ankle dorsiflexion syndrome (ADS) is common in neuro-musculoskeletal conditions, the instrument-assisted mobilization focused on the shortened gastro-soleus myofascial structure (IMI) rather than the homologous structure (both gastrosoleus and tibiliais anterior muscles, HIM). We aimed to compare the immediate therapeutic effects between IMH and IMI treatment groups on the ankle dorsiflexion angle, muscle activation and foot pressure distribution during dynamic gait in ADS. Neuromechanical tests including kinematics (ankle mobility), kinetics (center of pressure distribution), and electromyography were used to determine the immediate therapeutic effects between HIM and IMI treatment groups in 24 participants with ADS. The ankle joint angle analysis demonstrated a more improved active DF angle in the group who received HIM intervention when compared to the group who received IMI intervention. (11.26% and 3.58%, respectively) EMG analysis showed more decreased mean and peak TA activation amplitudes in the group who received HIM intervention (9.1% and 9%) when compared to the group who received IMI intervention (11.48% and 1.48%). Plantar pressure distribution analysis showed difference that the forefoot/area decreased in the group who received HIM intervention (8.1%), but rather increased in the group who received IMI intervention (14.3%). Our neuromechanical results demonstrated promising positive effects on ankle joint mobility, muscle activation and foot pressure distribution during gait in ADS.

A combined musculoskeletal and finite element model of a foot to predict plantar pressure distribution

In this study, a combined subject-specific numerical and experimental investigation was conducted to explore the plantar pressure of an individual. The research utilized finite element (FE) and musculoskeletal modelling based on computed tomography (CT) images of an ankle-foot complex and three-dimensional gait measurements. Muscle forces were estimated using an individualized multi-body musculoskeletal model in five gait phases. The results of the FE model and gait measurements for the same subject revealed the highest stress concentration of 0.48 MPa in the forefoot, which aligns with previously-reported clinical observations. Additionally, the study found that the encapsulated soft tissue FE model with hyper-elastic properties exhibited higher stresses compared to the model with linear-elastic properties, with maximum ratios of 1.16 and 1.88 MPa in the contact pressure and von-Mises stress, respectively. Furthermore, the numerical simulation demonstrated that the use of an individualized insole caused a reduction of 8.3% in the maximum contact plantar pressure and 14.7% in the maximum von-Mises stress in the encapsulated soft tissue. Overall, the developed model in this investigation holds potential for facilitating further studies on foot pathologies and the improvement of rehabilitation techniques in clinical settings.

Effects of instrument soft tissue mobilization on ankle movement, gait-related muscle activation, and plantar pressure distribution in limited ankle dorsiflexion syndrome

Effects of instrument soft tissue mobilization on ankle movement, gait-related muscle activation, and plantar pressure distribution in limited ankle dorsiflexion syndrome

349 Addressing the Gaps in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Management: Prediction and Prevention

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Globally, diabetes affects 537 million people and 15-25% will develop a foot ulcer in their lifetime. Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) tend to be chronic and non-healing due to the poor wound healing environment, leading to infection or amputation. Our study aims to develop a method to predict and prevent DFU formation. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Our preliminary plan is to develop a method to detect high plantar pressures, coupled with the ability to automatically adjust an orthotic device to offload excess pressure. Our current aim is to create a “smart orthotic” which will link with foot mapping technology to automatically offload high pressure areas, reducing the need for a separate clinic visit for orthotic adjustment. We aim to prove that our device will normalize plantar pressure distribution, which will prevent callus and subsequent DFU formation. The current target population includes those with diagnosed diabetes and are ambulatory. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: With our technology, we anticipate normalization of plantar pressure distribution in a more frequent fashion than is currently done. Because annual orthotic fittings, which is current standard of care, do not provide regular enough adjustments to match the rate of diabetic foot structural changes and peak plantar pressure redistribution, our device will address two gaps in management. One, patients will receive near-instantaneous changes in plantar pressure offloading, allowing for near continuous orthotic customization. Secondly, our device would reduce the clinical appointment burden, which would be especially important for patients with multiple medical comorbidities or experience other barriers to accessing healthcare. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: While DFUs are commonplace and their complications are well recognized, there still exists a gap in ulcer prevention. Our proposed solution will redistribute pathologic plantar pressures, allow for more frequent monitoring, automatic therapy, and aid in the management of high ulcer risk patients.

Effect of neurofeedback training on psychological features and plantar pressure distribution symmetry in patients with patellofemoral pain: A ransdomized controlled trial

ObjectiveThe evidence shows changes in plantar pressure asymmetry are associated with patellofemoral joint overloading and may be effective in patellofemoral pain (PFP) etiology. Psychological factors such as catastrophizing and kinesiophobia causes a change in movement behavior which can lead to a plantar pressure distribution asymmetry. This study evaluated the effect of neurofeedback training (NFBT) on psychological variables and plantar pressure distribution symmetry in patients with PFP. MethodThirty males with PFP were recruited for clinical trials. They were randomly divided into experimental and control groups (each group had 15 patients). The patients in the experimental group received NFBT for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was psychological variables inclusive of pain, catastrophizing, and kinesiophobia. The secondary outcome was plantar pressure distribution symmetry which was assessed in standing conditions. The covariance statistical method was used for data analysis. ResultsAfter 12 weeks of NFBT, there was a significant difference in the pain (P = 0.001, ηp2 = 0.467), the kinesiophobia (P = 0.001, ηp2 = 0.459), and the catastrophizing (P = 0.011, ηp2 = 0.218). However, despite the slight normalization, no significant difference in plantar pressure distribution symmetry of inter-limbs foot (η2 = 0.113, P = 0.075), forward and backward of right foot (η2 = 0.120, P = 0.066), and forward and backward of left foot (η2 = 0.104, P = 0.088). ConclusionNFBT reduces pain intensity, kinesiophobia, and catastrophizing by modulating areas related to pain processing and cognitive. However, NFBT has a small effect on normalizing plantar pressure. Therefore, it is recommended that adding NFBT to physical rehabilitation can have a better effect on improving clinical symptoms.

On Ski–Snow Contact Mechanics During the Double Poling Cycle in Cross-Country Skiing

Of the medals awarded during the Winter Olympics Games, most are awarded for sports involving cross-country (XC) skiing. The Double Poling (DP) technique, which is one of the sub-techniques used most frequently in XC skiing, has not yet been studied using simulations of the ski–snow contact mechanics. This work introduces a novel method for analysing how changes in the distribution of pressure on the sole of the foot (Plantar Pressure Distribution or PPD) during the DP motion affect the contact between the ski and the snow. The PPD recorded as the athlete performed DP, along with an Artificial Neural Network trained to predict the geometry of the ski (ski-camber profile), were used as input data for a solver based on the boundary element method, which models the interaction between the ski and the snow. This solver provides insights into how the area of contact and the distribution of pressure on the ski-snow interface change over time. The results reveal that variations in PPD, the type of ski, and the stiffness of the snow all have a significant impact on the contact between the ski and the snow. This information can be used to improve the Double Poling technique and make better choices of skis for specific snow conditions, ultimately leading to improved performance.Graphical

Hallux Valgus Plantar Pressure Distribution before and after a Distal Metatarsal Osteotomy.

Background: Hallux valgus (HV) morphological alterations impact forefoot kinetics. Surgery aims to restore both the morphology and function. Plantar pressure (PP) distribution systems represent an innovative additional tool to evaluate the hallux functional outcome after surgery in order to assess the hallux dorsiflexion, coupled with plantar flexion of the first ray. However, the literature reports limited evidence regarding the rebalancing of the plantar pressure distribution following surgery. The purpose of the present study was to examine the PP distribution in HV patients before and after a distal metatarsal osteotomy using a novel anatomically based protocol for in-shoe plantar load analysis during gait. Methods: A consecutive series of 18 patients with mild-to-moderate symptomatic HV who underwent a distal metatarsal osteotomy (S.E.R.I. technique) were prospectively evaluated using clinical scores (AOFAS and NRS), radiographic parameters (hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle), and PP measurements via W-INSHOE© (Medicapteurs, Balma, France). Data were collected preoperatively and 12 months after surgery. Results: At 12 months follow-up, 3 patients were lost to follow-up, leaving 15 patients (24 HV) for examination. Both clinical and radiographical outcomes showed significant improvements from the pre- to postoperative periods. The PP distribution pattern revealed a significant increase in the peak pressure under the first metatarsal head associated with a significant increase in the peak pressure under the central metatarsals area between the pre- and postoperative periods. Conclusions: PP measurement systems hold promise as an additional clinical tool, yet current findings remain inconclusive. Further long-term follow-up studies that incorporate additional parameters are warranted.

An Innovative Clinical Evaluation Protocol after Total Ankle Arthroplasty: A Pilot Study Using Inertial Sensors and Baropodometric Platforms

Background: Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) has grown in popularity and indications, with encouraging results over time. Today, preoperative and postoperative evaluations are mainly performed using clinical test and diagnostic imaging, but there is a deficiency in objectively evaluating the biomechanics of the foot and ankle, which serve as the functional markers for monitoring the effectiveness and outcomes of surgery. Inertial measurement units associated with plantar pressure measurements may provide an accurate and reliable method of evaluating function through the analysis of gait and ankle joint mobility. The aim of this study was to introduce an innovative technology, to assess its accuracy and feasibility compared to standard clinical assessment methods and to objectify kinematic outcomes in patients with end-stage ankle OA before and after TAA surgery. Methods: A consecutive series of eight patients with symptomatic end-stage osteoarthritis and treated with TAA was prospectively evaluated using clinical scores (AOFAS, MOxFQ, VAS, SF-36, 17-IFFI), physical tests (FPI, ALT), plantar pressure measurements with FLEX EPS/R2 Letsense® baropodometric platform, gait analysis and wearable sensors-based ankle motion and kinematic outcomes using Wiva Science inertial sensors by Letsense®. Data were collected preoperatively and 4 months after surgery. Results: All PROMs exhibited statistical significance in improvement from pre- to postoperative periods, except for one. Physical examinations showed no significant changes of the foot shape and alignment. Plantar pressure analyses revealed no significant changes in static and dynamic evaluations, but a more uniform distribution of plantar pressure was observed between the two periods. Inertial sensor parameters demonstrated no significant differences, except for a significant reduction in stride length and step length for the operated foot after surgery. Conclusions: Gait analysis using inertial sensors and plantar pressure measurements offer ease of handling, cost effectiveness, portability and swift data reading, making them highly appealing for widespread clinical use. Integrating these tools into the routine assessments of patients with TAA holds promise for advancing precision of treating this condition and our depth of its understanding, contributing to more comprehensive and insightful patient care.

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.

The effect of personalized orthopedic insoles on plantar pressure during running in subtle cavus foot.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the patterns of plantar pressure distribution during running for patients with subtle cavus foot (SCF) and determine the impact of personalized orthopedic insoles with forefoot wedge on plantar pressure distribution in patients with SCF. Methods: Sixteen undergraduate participants (8 with SCF and 8 with normal arches) were recruited based on arch height index measurements. Two full-length insoles were personalized for each SCF based on plantar pressures during running, an arch support insole (ASI) and an arch support with forefoot wedge insole (AFI). Foot pressure data collected during different insole conditions in running, analyzing ten regions of footprints for peak pressure and pressure-time integral. Results: Higher peak pressures were observed in patients with SCF at the medial forefoot (p = 0.021), medial heel (p = 0.013), and lateral heel (p = 0.025), with a higher pressure-time integral also noted at the medial forefoot (p = 0.025), medial heel (p = 0.015), and lateral heel (p = 0.047) when compared to normal arches. Compared with without-insole, both the AFI and the ASI reduced peak pressure at the medial (AFI p = 0.011; ASI p = 0.024) and lateral heel (AFI p = 0.028; ASI p = 0.032). The AFI reduced peak pressure at the medial heel (p = 0.013) compared with the ASI. Both the AFI and the ASI reduced pressure-time integral at the medial forefoot (AFI p = 0.003; ASI p = 0.026), central forefoot (AFI p = 0.005; ASI p = 0.011), medial heel (AFI p = 0.017; ASI p = 0.005), and lateral heel (AFI p = 0.017; ASI p = 0.019). Additionally, the ASI reduced pressure-time integral at the big toe (p = 0.015) compared with the without-insole. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that during running in patients with SCF, plantar pressures are concentrated in the forefoot and heel compared to the normal arch. The personalized orthotic insoles can be used to effectively redistribute plantar pressure in patients with SCF running. Incorporating a forefoot wedge to specifically address the biomechanical abnormalities associated with SCF may enhance the effectiveness of orthopedic insoles.

Biomechanical Evaluation of Plantar Pressure Distribution towards a Customized 3D Orthotic Device: A Methodological Case Study through a Finite Element Analysis Approach

Plantar pressure distribution is a thoroughly recognized parameter for evaluating foot structure and biomechanical behavior, as it is utilized to determine musculoskeletal conditions and diagnose foot abnormalities. Experimental testing is currently being utilized to investigate static foot conditions using invasive and noninvasive techniques. These methods are usually expensive and laborious, and they lack valuable data since they only evaluate compressive forces, missing the complex stress combinations the foot undergoes while standing. The present investigation applied medical and engineering methods to predict pressure points in a healthy foot soft tissue during normal standing conditions. Thus, a well-defined three-dimensional foot biomodel was constructed to be numerically analyzed through medical imaging. Two study cases were developed through a structural finite element analysis. The first study was developed to evaluate barefoot behavior deformation and stresses occurring in the plantar region. The results from this analysis were validated through baropodometric testing. Subsequently, a customized 3D model total-contact foot orthosis was designed to redistribute peak pressures appropriately, relieving the plantar region from excessive stress. The results in the first study case successfully demonstrated the prediction of the foot sole regions more prone to suffer a pressure concentration since the values are in good agreement with experimental testing. Employing a customized insole proved to be highly advantageous in fulfilling its primary function, reducing peak pressure points substantially. The main aim of this paper was to provide more precise insights into the biomechanical behavior of foot pressure points through engineering methods oriented towards innovative assessment for absolute customization for orthotic devices.

Ultrasensitive Flexible Pressure Sensors with Broad Linear Detection Range Enabled by Magnetically Induced Self‐Assembled Parallel Circuit

AbstractFlexible pressure sensors have attracted intensive interest for promising applications in healthcare monitoring and flexible electronic devices. Nonetheless, designing flexible pressure sensors to achieve both ultrahigh sensitivity (>1000 kPa−1) and an extensive linear range (>50 kPa) poses a significant challenge. In this study, a facile magnetic‐facilitated self‐assembly parallel circuit strategy to prepare high‐performance flexible pressure sensors in Nickel particles/polydimethylsiloxane (Ni/PDMS) matrices is proposed. The optimized magnetic‐induced Ni/PDMS piezoresistive sensor (MANPS) exhibits an ultrahigh sensitivity of 3707 kPa−1 over a wide broad linear range (0–80 kPa), and excellent durability with the capability of withstanding 2000 pressure cycles. The MANPS is able to detect a broad range of pressures from pulse to plantar pressures (≈60 kPa), demonstrating great potential for whole‐body healthcare monitoring. Additionally, the sensor is further assembled into an array configuration (2 × 5 pixels) for the assessment of plantar pressure distribution. Importantly, the sensitivity and linear range of the MANPS can be readily adjusted by modifying the mixing ratio of the curing agent, thereby significantly broadening its potential applications.

Effect of Novel Laser Shoe Photobiomodulation on Neuropathic Pain and Plantar Pressure Profile in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Peripheral Neuropathy.

Photobiomodulation (PBM) or Low-level laser is used to treat diabetic foot complications. The existing method of laser application to the foot did not cover the foot's entire area to improve the foot's microcirculation. Therefore, we have developed a cost-effective Special LASER Shoe device, focusing exclusively on the entire foot region to manage neuropathic pain and other symptoms in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of this newly developed special laser shoe PBM on neuropathic pain and plantar pressure profile in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus with neuropathy. We included 60 participants with diabetic peripheral neuropathy of both genders and age more than 20 years. Participants were treated with PBM by a specially designed novel Laser Shoe. Outcomes were clinical variables like Vibration Perception Threshold (VPT), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Michigan neuropathy screening instrument A&B, Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), and Static dynamic gait parameters. Participants were with an average age of 62, and the average duration of diabetes was 11 years. Analysis showed a significant difference in VPT, VAS, Michigan neuropathic screening inventory, and ankle-brachial index. (P < 0.05). We conclude that Novel laser shoe photobiomodulation using 'Laser Shoe' effectively reduces peripheral neuropathic pain. It is also effective in reducing average and maximum plantar pressure. Reduction in neuropathic pain and improvement in plantar pressure distribution can reduce further complications.

Plantar pressure distribution and altered postural control in multibacillary leprosy patients

BackgroundLeprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, predominantly affecting the peripheral nerves, resulting in sensory and motor deficits in the feet. Foot ulcers and imbalances are frequent manifestations in leprosy, often correlating with diminished sensitivity. While clinical scales and monofilament esthesiometers are conventionally utilized to evaluate foot sensitivity and balance in these patients, their discriminatory power is limited and their effectiveness is greatly dependent on the examiner’s proficiency. In contrast, baropodometry and posturography offer a more comprehensive evaluation, aiming to preempt potential damage events. This study aimed was to assess the correlation between baropodometry and force plate measurements in leprosy patients and control participants, to improve the prevention and treatment of foot ulcers and complications associated with leprosy.MethodologyThis cross-sectional study was conducted during 2022 and enrolled 39 participants (22 patients with multibacillary leprosy and 17 non-leprosy controls). Demographic data were collected, and a monofilament esthesiometer was used to assess sensory deficits. In addition, physical examinations and balance and plantar pressure tests were conducted.The Student’s t-test was used to compare mean and maximum plantar pressures between groups. For most COP variables, a Mann-Whitney Wilcoxon test was used, except for AP amplitude which was analyzed with the Student’s t-test due to its normal distribution. The relationship between foot pressure and balance control was assessed using Spearman’s correlation, focusing on areas with significant pressure differences between groups.Principal findingsLeprosy patients showed increased pressure in forefoot areas (T1, M1, T2-T5, and M2) and decreased pressure in hindfoot regions (MH and LH) compared to controls. These patients also displayed higher AP and ML amplitudes, suggesting poorer COP control. Correlation analyses between the two groups revealed that foot plantar pressures significantly impact balance control. Specifically, increased T1 region pressures correlated with greater sway in balance tasks, while decreased MH region pressures were linked to reduced COP control.Conclusions/significanceThe findings suggest a joint disturbance of plantar pressure distribution and static balance control in leprosy patients. These alterations may increase the risk of tissue injuries, including calluses and deformities, as well as falls.

Multi-Level Pyramidal Microstructure-Based Pressure Sensors with High Sensitivity and Wide Linear Range for Healthcare Monitoring.

Flexible pressure sensors have garnered significant attention in the field of wearable healthcare due to their scalability and shape variability. However, a crucial challenge in their practical application for various healthcare scenarios is striking a balance between the sensitivity and sensing range. This limitation arises from the reduced compressibility of the microstructures on the surface of pressure-sensitive materials under high pressure, resulting in progressive saturation of the sensor's response and leading to a restricted and nonlinear pressure sensing range. In this study, we present a novel approach utilizing multi-level pyramidal microstructures in flexible pressure sensors to achieve both high sensitivity (8775 kPa-1) and linear response (R2 = 0.997) over a wide pressure range (up to 1000 kPa). The effectiveness of the proposed design stems from the compensatory behavior of the lower pyramidal microstructures, which counteracts the declining sensitivity associated with the gradual hardening of the higher pyramidal microstructures. Furthermore, the sensor demonstrates a fast response time of 11.6 ms and a fast relaxation time of 3.8 ms and can reliably detect pressures as low as 30.2 Pa. Our findings highlight the applicability of this flexible pressure sensor in diverse human body health detection tasks, ranging from weak pulses to finger flexion and plantar pressure distribution. Notably, the proposed sensor design eliminates the need for replacing flexible pressure sensors with varying ranges, thereby enhancing their practical utility.

The relationship between body height and plantar pressure distribution in adult handball players: A cross-sectional study

Background/purpose The relationship between a handball player's upper body posture, body weight distribution in relation to body height is poorly understood. So, this study explored the relationship between body height and sagittal spinal curvatures and plantar pressure distribution in handball players. Method According to handball player's body height, 63 male handball players were divided into two groups; group A (age, 23.54 ± 1.32 years) consisted of 30 handball players with body height above average, and group B (age, 23.40 ± 1.73 years) consisted of 33 handball players with body height below average. The thoracic and lumbar curvatures and trunk height were measured with the Formetric III 4D spine, and the DIERS Pedoscan device was used to assess the plantar pressure distribution for both groups. Results The thoracic kyphosis of group A was significantly higher than that of group B ( p = 0.001), without a significant difference in lumbar lordosis ( p = 0.086). Group A showed a significant increase in the forefeet pressure and a significant decrease in the rearfeet pressure compared to group B ( p = 0.001). There was a high positive correlation between the body height and trunk length, and body height and kyphosis angle ( r = 0.932, r = 0.665, respectively). There was a high positive correlation between the body height and forefoot plantar pressure ( r = 0.665, p &lt; 0.01). Conclusion The taller handball players have an increased thoracic kyphosis angle and forefeet pressure compared to shorter handball players.