Preferred placement of the feet during quiet stance: development of a standardized foot placement for balance testing.

Three-dimensional finite element analysis of the foot during standing—a material sensitivity study

Measurements of plantar pressure provide an indication of foot and ankle functions during gait and other functional activities, because the foot and ankle provide both the necessary support and flexibility for weight bearing and weight shifting while performing these activities.1–3 Although plantar pressure data have been recognized as an important element in the assessment of clients with diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, information derived from plantar pressure data also can assist in determining and managing the impairments associated with various musculoskeletal, integumentary, and neurological disorders.

The use of force platforms is the method most commonly used to assess the interaction of the foot and supporting surface. Although the force platform provides valuable information regarding both the vertical and shear components of the ground reaction force, it provides little information on how the planter surface of the foot is loaded with respect to the supporting surface. When evaluating patients, atypical amounts of loading or patterns of loading may be reflective of a systemic or localized lower-extremity pathology and may be indicators (risk factors) for or predictors of further pathology or worsening of the existing pathology.4 In addition, force platforms have very specific requirements for attachment to the supporting surface on which data collection will occur. Such is not the case with numerous commercially available systems for measuring plantar pressure (eg, Emed sensor platform, * Pedar insole system, * F-Scan system,† Musgrave footprint system‡). Thus, plantar pressure measurement systems offer the clinician a high degree of portability, permitting utilization among multiple clinic sites.

Pressure (p) (also called “stress”) is defined as force (f) per unit area (a) (ie, p=f/a).5 Force , when measured using a force platform, is the net result of the 3 components of the ground reaction or resultant force acting on the foot. …

Plantar Pressure Assessment

The design, implementation, evaluation, interpretation and report of research is a key important for the science. The research required minimize the uncertainty, therefore we encourage all authors of respect how much can possible the contents in this official editorial also in order to stimulate interest and debate about constructive change in the use of statistics in our disciplines1,2. Authors are required to confirm that these standards and laws have been adhered to by formally citing this editorial within the methods section of their own manuscript.

Muscle, Ligaments and Tendons Journal. Basic principles and recommendations in clinical and field science research.

Preface. Part 1: Introduction. 1. Introduction to the Biomechanics of Human Movement. 2. Fundamentals of Biomechanics and Qualitative Analysis. Part 2: Biological/Structural Bases. 3. Anatomical Description and its Limitations. 4. Mechanics of the Musculoskeletal System. Part 3: Mechanical Bases. 5. Linear and Angular Kinetics. 6. Linear Kinetics. 7. Angular Kinetics. 8. Fluid Mechanics. Part 4: Applications of Biomechanics in Qualitative Analysis. 9. Applying Biomechanics in Physical Education. 10. Applying Biomechanics in Coaching. 11. Applying Biomechanics in Strength and Conditioning. 12. Applying Biomechanics in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. References. Appendix A: Glossary. Appendix B: Conversion Factors. Appendix C: Suggested Answers to Selected Review Questions. Appendix D: Right Angle Trigonometry Review. Appendix E: Qualitative Analysis in Biomechanical Principles. Index. Lab Activities. About the Author. Index.

Fundamentals of Biomechanics

The plantar pressure distributions for a large heterogeneous sample of feet (N = 107) were collected during barefoot standing using a capacitance mat. From these data, the function of the foot during standing was characterized. Peak pressures under the heel (139 kPa) were, on average, 2.6 times greater than forefoot pressures (53 kPa). Forefoot peak pressures were usually located under the second or third metatarsal heads. No significant relationship was found between body weight and the magnitude of peak pressure. The concepts of a transverse arch at the level of the metatarsal heads and a "tripod" theory of load distribution were not substantiated by this study. Load distribution analysis showed that the heel carried 60%, the midfoot 8%, and the forefoot 28% of the weightbearing load. The toes were only minimally involved in the weightbearing process. Examples of unusual distributions are shown; finally, a checklist is provided to aid the clinician in evaluating plantar pressure findings.

Pressure Distribution under Symptom-Free Feet during Barefoot Standing

In the last decade, physical therapists have recognized that the field of biomechanics has become an area of study that can contribute significantly to the profession; therefore, it has become a part of most curricula. Biomechanics represents an amalgamation of several different fields including mechanics, physics, engineering, anatomy, physiology, and mathematics. More recently, elements of computer science and electronics have also become integral components. The breadth of knowledge required is therefore substantial, and we are not surprised about the lack of precision concerning terminology in certain areas. A lack of formal background during professional preparation may lead to the misuse of some terms because of the relative infancy of biomechanics. The simultaneous inclusion of biomechanics into the body of knowledge of other fields such as orthopedics, ergonomics, prosthetics, and podiatry have sometimes led to disagreement over basic definitions and concepts, which have developed different meanings in different fields.

Mary M. Rodgers

Papers

Pressure Distribution under Symptom-Free Feet during Barefoot Standing

Glossary of Biomechanical Terms, Concepts, and Units