1
|
An TW, Berke G, Beattie W, Chan JY. Orthotic Devices for the Foot and Ankle. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2024; 32:e795-e806. [PMID: 38109744 DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-23-00832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Millions of Americans wear ankle-foot orthotic devices for protection, pain relief, and deformity correction. Inquiries about off-the-shelf and custom devices are a common reason for evaluation with a foot and ankle surgeon or general orthopaedic surgeon. Despite limited high-quality evidence for their use, these devices can have a notable clinical impact on physical function. An up-to-date understanding of orthotic device options and their appropriate use in managing musculoskeletal pathologies applies to all orthopaedic providers. This review aims to categorize orthosis types and provide specific device recommendations for common adult conditions such as flatfoot, cavovarus foot, and ankle instability. Collaboration with a certified orthotist can help patients achieve functional and recreational goals with the use of appropriately designed and applied orthoses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tonya W An
- From the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA (An, Berke, and Chan) and Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL (Beattie)
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Miyazaki T, Aimi T, Yamada Y, Nakamura Y. Curved carbon plates inside running shoes modified foot and shank angular velocity improving mechanical efficiency at the ankle joint. J Biomech 2024; 172:112224. [PMID: 38971114 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.112224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Recent technologically advanced running shoes have been designed with higher stack height and curved carbon plate-reinforced toe springs to enhance running performance. The purpose of this study was to examine how curved carbon-plate reinforcement modulated mechanical efficiency at the ankle joint during the running stance phase. We prepared two footwear conditions: Non and Carbon, both had a 3D-printed midsole (40-mm heel thickness). A full-length curved carbon plate was inserted along the toe spring in Carbon. The participants included 14 non-rearfoot long-distance athletes. They were required to run at a speed of 12 km/h on a 20-m runway with both shoes. Mechanical-energy expenditure (MEE, indicating mechanical work) and compensation (MEC, indicating mechanical efficiency) were calculated in the following mechanical-energy transfer phases: concentric, eccentric, and no-transfer. Running with Carbon exhibited improved MEC and reduced MEE at the ankle joint during the concentric transfer phase than with Non. The improvement in the concentric MEC at the ankle joint indicates that a larger amount of mechanical energy is transferred from the shank into the foot segment that compensates for the force exerted by the plantar flexor muscles, which implies more mechanically efficient plantarflexion movement. As the ankle joint is the largest energetic contributor in the running stance phase, greater MEC and lower MEE and torque at the ankle joint could improve running performance. Hence, the curved carbon plate may be a key feature of advanced footwear technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Miyazaki
- Graduate School of Health and Sports Science, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Takayuki Aimi
- Graduate School of Health and Sports Science, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan; Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Yugo Yamada
- School of Environment and Society, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Yasuo Nakamura
- Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kurnianto RR, Hijmans JM, Greve C, Houdijk H. Human-in-the-loop optimization of rocker shoe to reduce plantar pressure and collision work simultaneously. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2024; 116:106282. [PMID: 38850883 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2024.106282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rocker shoes can be used to reduce foot pressure and adjust lower limb kinetics for various patient population, such as people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Selecting adequate properties of the rocker sole is of great importance for its efficacy. This study investigated the capability of human-in-the-loop optimization (HILO) to individually optimize apex position and angle of rocker shoe to reduce peak pressure and collision work simultaneously. METHODS Peak pressure, kinetic, and kinematic data were recorded from 10 healthy participants while walking at preferred speed wearing rocker shoes with adjustable apex position and angle. An evolutionary algorithm was used to find optimal apex parameters to reduce both peak pressure in medial forefoot and collision work. The optimized shoe (HILO shoe) was compared with generic optimal rocker settings (Chapman settings) and normal shoe. FINDINGS Compared to normal shoe, the HILO shoe had lower plantar pressure (pHILO = 0.007; pChapman = 0.044) and Chapman shoe showed higher collision work (pHILO = 0.025; pChapman = 0.014). Both HILO and Chapman shoe had smaller push-off work than normal shoe (pHILO = 0.001; pChapman < 0.001) with the Chapman shoe exhibited earlier push-off onset (pHILO = 0.257; pChapman = 0.016). INTERPRETATION The Human-in-the-loop optimization approach resulted in individualized apex settings which performed on average similar to Chapman settings but, were superior in selected cases. In these cases, medial forefoot could be further offloaded with apex angles larger than generic settings. The larger apex angle might increase the external ankle moment arm and push-off work. However, there is limited room for improvement on collision work compared to generic settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R R Kurnianto
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Human Movement Sciences, Groningen, the Netherlands; Institut Teknologi Bandung, Faculty of Industrial Technology, Industrial Engineering Department, Bandung, Indonesia.
| | - J M Hijmans
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - C Greve
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Human Movement Sciences, Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - H Houdijk
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Human Movement Sciences, Groningen, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mai P, Robertz L, Robbin J, Bill K, Weir G, Kurz M, Trudeau MB, Hollander K, Hamill J, Willwacher S. Towards functionally individualised designed footwear recommendation for overuse injury prevention: a scoping review. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2023; 15:152. [PMID: 37951935 PMCID: PMC10638717 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-023-00760-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Injury prevention is essential in running due to the risk of overuse injury development. Tailoring running shoes to individual needs may be a promising strategy to reduce this risk. Novel manufacturing processes allow the production of individualised running shoes that incorporate features that meet individual biomechanical and experiential needs. However, specific ways to individualise footwear to reduce injury risk are poorly understood. Therefore, this scoping review provides an overview of (1) footwear design features that have the potential for individualisation; and (2) the literature on the differential responses to footwear design features between selected groups of individuals. These purposes focus exclusively on reducing the risk of overuse injuries. We included studies in the English language on adults that analysed: (1) potential interaction effects between footwear design features and subgroups of runners or covariates (e.g., age, sex) for running-related biomechanical risk factors or injury incidences; (2) footwear comfort perception for a systematically modified footwear design feature. Most of the included articles (n = 107) analysed male runners. Female runners may be more susceptible to footwear-induced changes and overuse injury development; future research should target more heterogonous sampling. Several footwear design features (e.g., midsole characteristics, upper, outsole profile) show potential for individualisation. However, the literature addressing individualised footwear solutions and the potential to reduce biomechanical risk factors is limited. Future studies should leverage more extensive data collections considering relevant covariates and subgroups while systematically modifying isolated footwear design features to inform footwear individualisation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Mai
- Institute of Biomechanics and Orthopaedics, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933, Cologne, Germany.
- Institute for Advanced Biomechanics and Motion Studies, Offenburg University, Offenburg, Germany.
- Department of Physical Performance, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Leon Robertz
- Institute of Biomechanics and Orthopaedics, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933, Cologne, Germany
| | - Johanna Robbin
- Institute for Advanced Biomechanics and Motion Studies, Offenburg University, Offenburg, Germany
| | - Kevin Bill
- Institute of Biomechanics and Orthopaedics, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gillian Weir
- Biomechanics Laboratory, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Markus Kurz
- Sports Tech Research Centre, Mid Sweden University, Östersund, Sweden
| | | | - Karsten Hollander
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Joseph Hamill
- Biomechanics Laboratory, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Steffen Willwacher
- Institute of Biomechanics and Orthopaedics, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Müngersdorf 6, 50933, Cologne, Germany
- Institute for Advanced Biomechanics and Motion Studies, Offenburg University, Offenburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Xia Y, Shen S, Jia SW, Teng J, Gu Y, Fekete G, Korim T, Zhao H, Wei Q, Yang F. Gender differences in footwear characteristics between half and full marathons in China: a cross-sectional survey. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13020. [PMID: 37563273 PMCID: PMC10415251 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39718-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
There are concerns about the risk of injuries caused by marathons in China. Since male and female runners have different injury risks, gender differences in running shoe functionality should be further complemented. A supervised questionnaire survey of 626 marathon runners was collected. The questionnaire was categorized into four sections: (1) participant profile, (2) importance of shoe properties, (3) functional evaluation of shoe properties and (4) importance ranking of shoe properties. The Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher's exact test of cross tabulation and Chi-square test, and two-way ANOVA were used to analyze the results of this survey. The significance level was set at P < 0.05. The full marathon participants were older than the half marathon participants. There was no gender difference in the importance of shoe features to elite runners. In addition, women are more concerned about upper elasticity and have higher requirements for running shoes than men. Women were more focused on injury prevention, while men were more focused on running performance. Heel cushioning was identified by all participants as the most important running shoe feature. There were no gender differences between elite players' demand for running shoes, but significant gender differences were found between genders at other running levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuyu Xia
- School of Social Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Siqin Shen
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Pannonia, Veszprém, Hungary
- Savaria Institute of Technology, Eötvös Loránd University, Szombathely, Hungary
| | - Sheng-Wei Jia
- School of Social Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
- Li Ning Sports Science Research Center, Li Ning (China) Sports Goods Company Limited, Beijing, China.
| | - Jin Teng
- Department of Sports Biomechanics, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Yaodong Gu
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Gusztáv Fekete
- Savaria Institute of Technology, Eötvös Loránd University, Szombathely, Hungary
| | - Tamás Korim
- Department of Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Pannonia, Veszprém, Hungary
| | - Haotian Zhao
- Department of Physical Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Department of Physical Education, Tangshan Normal University, Tangshan, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Li Ning Sports Science Research Center, Li Ning (China) Sports Goods Company Limited, Beijing, China.
- Department of Physical Education and Research, China University of Mining and Technology-Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kim J, Kim Y, Moon J, Kong J, Kim SJ. Biomechanical Analysis of the Unaffected Limb While Using a Hands-Free Crutch. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2023; 8:jfmk8020056. [PMID: 37218852 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk8020056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Basic human ambulation relies on a bipedal gait, which has been reported to be directly related to quality of life. However, injuries to the lower limb can cause an inability to walk and require non-weightbearing periods to heal. Among the many ambulatory aids, standard axillary crutches are prescribed. However, due to the disadvantages of having to use both hands, a slow gait, pain, nerve damage, and gait patterns that differ from that of healthy subjects, currently, a new generation of ambulatory aids has emerged. Among such aids, hands-free crutches (HFCs) are of particular interest due to their form factor, which does not require the use of the hands and facilitates a bipedal gait. In this study, we present an assessment of whether any different gait patterns, compared to overground gait, appeared on the unaffected limb during walking with an HFC. The spatiotemporal parameters, plantar force, lower-limb joint angles, and EMG patterns were evaluated. In conclusion, the results from 10 healthy subjects suggest that wearing an HFC causes only slight changes in the biomechanical gait patterns examined in the unaffected limb compared with overground walking without an HFC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaewook Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Yekwang Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Juhui Moon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo Kong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Jong Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kayll SA, Hinman RS, Bryant AL, Bennell KL, Rowe PL, Paterson KL. Do biomechanical foot-based interventions reduce patellofemoral joint loads in adults with and without patellofemoral pain or osteoarthritis? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Sports Med 2023:bjsports-2022-106542. [PMID: 36898768 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2022-106542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of biomechanical foot-based interventions (eg, footwear, insoles, taping and bracing on the foot) on patellofemoral loads during walking, running or walking and running combined in adults with and without patellofemoral pain or osteoarthritis. DESIGN Systematic review with meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, CINAHL, SPORTdiscus, Embase and CENTRAL. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES English-language studies that assessed effects of biomechanical foot-based interventions on peak patellofemoral joint loads, quantified by patellofemoral joint pressure, reaction force or knee flexion moment during gait, in people with or without patellofemoral pain or osteoarthritis. RESULTS We identified 22 footwear and 11 insole studies (participant n=578). Pooled analyses indicated low-certainty evidence that minimalist footwear leads to a small reduction in peak patellofemoral joint loads compared with conventional footwear during running only (standardised mean difference (SMD) (95% CI) = -0.40 (-0.68 to -0.11)). Low-certainty evidence indicated that medial support insoles do not alter patellofemoral joint loads during walking (SMD (95% CI) = -0.08 (-0.42 to 0.27)) or running (SMD (95% CI) = 0.11 (-0.17 to 0.39)). Very low-certainty evidence indicated rocker-soled shoes have no effect on patellofemoral joint loads during walking and running combined (SMD (95% CI) = 0.37) (-0.06 to 0.79)). CONCLUSION Minimalist footwear may reduce peak patellofemoral joint loads slightly compared with conventional footwear during running only. Medial support insoles may not alter patellofemoral joint loads during walking or running and the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of rocker-soled shoes during walking and running combined. Clinicians aiming to reduce patellofemoral joint loads during running in people with patellofemoral pain or osteoarthritis may consider minimalist footwear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samual A Kayll
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Dentistry & Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rana S Hinman
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Dentistry & Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Adam L Bryant
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Dentistry & Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kim L Bennell
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Dentistry & Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Patrick L Rowe
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Dentistry & Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kade L Paterson
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Dentistry & Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
The rocker-soled shoes change the kinematics and muscle contractions of the lower extremity during various functional movement. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20523. [PMID: 36443456 PMCID: PMC9705322 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25116-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
While rocker-shaped soles have become popular for running shoes, whether or not this type of shoe benefits other functional movements has rarely been discussed. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of rocker-soled shoes on lower extremity biomechanics during different exercises. Seventeen healthy university students were recruited. A motion capture analysis system and surface electromyography were used to measure kinematics and muscle activation while walking (10 m), running (10 m), cutting, jumping, and ascending and descending stairs. The results showed that when wearing rocker-soled shoes, greater peak external ankle rotation was present during most exercises. Smaller peak joint angles were observed in hip extension and external rotation when walking, and in ankle dorsiflexion when ascending stairs and jumping. The vastus medialis and vastus lateralis contracted more in most exercises when rocker-soled shoes were worn. However, the biceps femoris and medial gastrocnemius showed less muscle contraction. Wearing rocker-soled shoes during testing movements change the kinematics and muscle contractions of the lower extremity. These findings may provide information for choosing shoes for different exercises or training purposes.
Collapse
|
9
|
Freitag L, Hohenauer E, Meichtry A, Pauli C, Sommer B, Graf E. Effect of submaximal running in rocker shoes on gluteal muscle activation under different running conditions. Sci Sports 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scispo.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
|
10
|
Lin-Wei Chen T, Wai-Chi Wong D, Peng Y, Wang Y, Kwan-Kei Wong I, Lam TK, Lam WK, Zhang M. The interaction effects of rocker angle and apex location in rocker shoe design on foot biomechanics and Achilles tendon loading. MEDICINE IN NOVEL TECHNOLOGY AND DEVICES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medntd.2021.100111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
|
11
|
Effects of Longitudinal Bending Stiffness of forefoot rocker profile shoes on ankle kinematics and kinetics. Gait Posture 2021; 90:326-333. [PMID: 34564006 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2021.09.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rocker profile shoes with a proximally placed apex are currently one of the most prescribed shoe modifications for treatment and prevention of lower leg deficits. Three geometrical rocker design parameters apex position (AP), apex angle (AA) and rocker radius (RR) influence both plantar pressure redistribution and kinetic and kinematic alterations of the lower leg. In addition, longitudinal bending stiffness (LBS) of the outsole influences these parameters as well. This study aims to investigate the effects of the LBS in combination with different forefoot radii of rocker shoes on kinematics and kinetics of the lower limb. METHODS 10 participants walked in standard shoes and six experimental shoe conditions with high and low LBS and three different forefoot rocker radii with the same (proximal) AP and AA. Lower extremity kinematics and kinetics were collected while walking on an instrumented treadmill at preferred walking speed and analysed with a repeated measures ANOVA and Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM) (α = .05; post hoc α = .05/6). RESULTS SPM analyses revealed no significant differences for LBS and interaction LBS*RR for most research variables in terminal stance (ankle angle, ankle moment, ankle power, foot-to-horizontal angle, shank-to-vertical angle, external ankle moment, ground reaction force angle). A significant LBS effect was found for anterior-posterior position of the centre of pressure during pre-swing and peak ankle dorsiflexion angle. No relevant significant differences were found in spatio-temporal parameters and total work at the ankle between low and high LBS. CONCLUSION This study showed that longitudinal bending stiffness does not affect the biomechanical working mechanism of rocker profile shoes as long as toe plantarflexion is restricted. Providing that the forefoot rocker radius supports at least a normal foot-to-horizontal angle at toe-off, there is no reason to increase sole stiffness to change ankle kinematics and kinetics.
Collapse
|
12
|
van Kouwenhove L, Verkerke GJ, Postema K, Dekker R, Hijmans JM. Effect of different forefoot rocker radii on lower-limb joint biomechanics in healthy individuals. Gait Posture 2021; 86:150-156. [PMID: 33725583 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Previous studies showed that rocker shoes with a stiff forefoot rocker profile significantly reduce peak plantar flexion moment at the ankle (PFM) and peak ankle dorsiflexion (DF). Both parameters are related to Achilles tendon and Plantar Fascia unloading. The shape of an outsole with a forefoot rocker is described with multiple rocker design parameters. The aim of this research is, to determine the relation between different forefoot rocker radii on peak DF and peak PFM at a self-selected walking speed. METHODS 10 participants walked in standard shoes and three experimental pairs of shoes with different forefoot rocker radii. Lower extremity kinematics and kinetics were collected while walking on an instrumented treadmill at preferred walking speed and analysed with Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM) (α = .05; post-hoc α = .05/6). RESULTS Peak value analyses showed significant decreases in peak DF, peak PFM, and peak ankle power generation for the rocker conditions. No relevant significant differences were found in spatio-temporal parameters and total work at the ankle joint. SPM showed a significant decrease (% gait cycle) in DF (40-69 %), PFM (7-15 %; 41-68 %; 69-81 %), ankle power (10-15 %; 32-51 %; 55-64 %; 64-67 %; 72-80 %) and foot-to-horizontal angle (FHA) (0-4 %; 40-62 %; 92-100 %) and an increased shank-to-vertical angle (SVA) (44-84 %) for the rocker conditions. CONCLUSION The results of this study suggest that rocker shoes with a proximally placed apex significantly reduce DF and PFM during the third rocker compared with control shoes. This effect is mainly explained by a change in the FHA. Smaller radii cause the largest reductions in DF and PFM, so therefore, a uniform standardisation of the forefoot rocker radius is essential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L van Kouwenhove
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - G J Verkerke
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Twente, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - K Postema
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - R Dekker
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - J M Hijmans
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Groningen, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hoitz F, Mohr M, Asmussen M, Lam WK, Nigg S, Nigg B. The effects of systematically altered footwear features on biomechanics, injury, performance, and preference in runners of different skill level: a systematic review. FOOTWEAR SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/19424280.2020.1773936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Hoitz
- Biomedical Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Human Performance Laboratory, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Maurice Mohr
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Sports Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Michael Asmussen
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Health and Physical Education, Mount Royal University, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Wing-Kai Lam
- Li Ning Sports Science Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Sandro Nigg
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Benno Nigg
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Biomechanical effects of rocker shoes on plantar aponeurosis strain in patients with plantar fasciitis and healthy controls. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0222388. [PMID: 31600227 PMCID: PMC6786540 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0222388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Plantar fasciitis is a frequently occurring overuse injury of the foot. Shoes with a stiff rocker profile are a commonly prescribed treatment modality used to alleviate complaints associated with plantar fasciitis. In rocker shoes the apex position was moved proximally as compared to normal shoes, limiting the progression of the ground reaction forces (GRF) and peak plantarflexion moments during gait. A stiff sole minimizes dorsiflexion of the toes. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the biomechanical effects of rocker shoes lead to minimization of plantar aponeurosis (PA) strain during gait in patients with plantar fasciitis and in healthy young adults. 8 patients with plantar fasciitis (1 male, 7 females; mean age 55.0 ± 8.4 years) and 8 healthy young adults (8 females; mean age 24.1 ± 1.6 years) participated in the study. Each participant walked for 1 minute on an instrumented treadmill while wearing consecutively in random order shoes with a normal apex position (61.2 ± 2.8% apex) with flexible insole (FN), normal apex position with stiff insole (SN), proximal apex position (56.1 ± 2.6% apex) with flexible insole (FR) and proximal apex position with stiff insole (SR). Marker position data of the foot and lower leg and GRF were recorded. An OpenSim foot model was used to compute the change in PA length based on changes in foot segment positions during gait. The changes in PA length due to increases in Achilles tendon forces were computed based on previous data of a cadaver study. PA strain computed from both methods was not statistically different between shoe conditions. Peak Achilles tendon force, peak first metatarsophalangeal (MTP1) joint angle and peak plantarflexion moment were significantly lower when walking with the rocker shoe with a proximal apex position and a stiff insole for all subjects (p<.05). Changes in Achilles tendon forces during gait accounted for 65 ± 2% of the total PA strain. Rocker shoes with a stiff insole reduce peak dorsiflexion angles of the toes and plantar flexion moments, but not PA strain because the effects of a proximal apex position and stiff insole do not occur at the same time, but independently affect PA strain at 80-90% and 90-100% of the stance phase. Rocker shoes with an apex position of ~56% are insufficient to significantly reduce peak PA strain values in patients with plantar fasciitis and healthy young adults.
Collapse
|
15
|
Hannigan JJ, Pollard CD. A 6-Week Transition to Maximal Running Shoes Does Not Change Running Biomechanics. Am J Sports Med 2019; 47:968-973. [PMID: 30870034 DOI: 10.1177/0363546519826086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A recent study suggested that maximal running shoes may increase the impact force and loading rate of the vertical ground-reaction force during running. It is currently unknown whether runners will adapt to decrease the impact force and loading rate over time. PURPOSE To compare the vertical ground-reaction force and ankle kinematics between maximal and traditional shoes before and after a 6-week acclimation period to the maximal shoe. STUDY DESIGN Controlled laboratory study. METHODS Participants ran in a traditional running shoe and a maximal running shoe during 2 testing sessions 6 weeks apart. During each session, 3-dimensional kinematics and kinetics were collected during overground running. Variables of interest included the loading rate, impact peak, and active peak of the vertical ground-reaction force, as well as eversion and dorsiflexion kinematics. Two-way repeated measures analyses of variance compared data within participants. RESULTS No significant differences were observed in any biomechanical variable between time points. The loading rate and impact peak were higher in the maximal shoe. Runners were still everted at toe-off and landed with less dorsiflexion, on average, in the maximal shoe. CONCLUSION Greater loading rates and impact forces were previously found in maximal running shoes, which may indicate an increased risk of injury. The eversion mechanics observed in the maximal shoes may also increase the risk of injury. A 6-week transition to maximal shoes did not significantly change any of these measures. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Maximal running shoes are becoming very popular and may be considered a treatment option for some injuries. The biomechanical results of this study do not support the use of maximal running shoes. However, the effect of these shoes on pain and injury rates is unknown.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J J Hannigan
- Program in Kinesiology, Oregon State University-Cascades, Bend, Oregon, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Khan SJ, Khan SS, Zia-Ur-Rehman M, Shafique M. Footwear Affects Biomechanical Work And Knee Adduction Moment During Stance Phase In Medial Knee Osteoarthritic Male Pakistani Adults. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2018; 2018:1785-1788. [PMID: 30440740 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2018.8512591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to explore the effects of commonly used footwear in urban Pakistan on knee adduction moment (KAM), knee adduction angular impulse (KAAI) and biomechanical work at lower limb joints (both individually and collectively). METHODOLOGY Cinematographic gait analysis of 20 medial knee osteoarthritis patients (Kellgren-Lawrence Grade I and II, age: 55.48 ± 5.78 years; weight: 68.92 ± 9.61 kg, height: 1.62 ± 0.15m) was done, walking barefoot, with casual shoes, party shoes and traditional Pakistani sandals, at a walking speed of 1.2m/sec. RESULTS Repeated measures ANOVA with Tukey corrections showed that all the shoes were found to be increasing first & second peaks external KAM and decreasing net joint work and total limb work significantly, at p < 0.05. CONCLUSION Effects of footwear were found to be majorly favouring knee osteoarthritis progression. This might be one of the risk factors of increased kOA rate in urban Pakistan.
Collapse
|
17
|
Trama R, Blache Y, Hautier C. Effect of rocker shoes and running speed on lower limb mechanics and soft tissue vibrations. J Biomech 2018; 82:171-177. [PMID: 30389258 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2018.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown a possible effect of running speed and the sole material of footwear on lower-limb mechanics and soft tissue vibrations, while little information has been offered concerning the influence of the shape of the footwear's sole. The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of running speed and rocker shoes on muscular activity, ground reaction force, and soft tissue vibrations. Twenty participants performed heel-toe running with two shoes, differentiated only by their sole shape (i.e. rocker and non-rocker), at four running speeds. Ground reaction force and electromyograms of the gastrocnemius medialis and vastus lateralis were measured, and soft tissue accelerations of the same muscles were recorded with tri-axial accelerometers. A continuous wavelet transform was applied to the accelerometer's signals to analyse them in the time-frequency domain. The rocker of the shoes did not change the muscular activations, ground reaction force, nor power of soft tissue vibrations. In opposite, increased running speed led to an augmentation of all of the measured parameters. Interestingly, running speed augmentation led to a greater increase in high frequencies component of soft tissue vibrations (25-50 Hz, 242%) than lower ones (8-25 Hz, 111%). Consequently, we indicated a 10% increase in the relative part of the high frequencies of the total power. In conclusion, although rocker shoes have shown an effect on lower-limb kinetics in some studies, no influence on soft tissue vibration is denoted. By contrast, soft tissue vibrations may be modulated by changing running speed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Trama
- Univ-lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, LIBM EA 7424, Lyon, France.
| | - Y Blache
- Univ-lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, LIBM EA 7424, Lyon, France
| | - C Hautier
- Univ-lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, LIBM EA 7424, Lyon, France
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bertelsen ML, Hulme A, Petersen J, Brund RK, Sørensen H, Finch CF, Parner ET, Nielsen RO. A framework for the etiology of running-related injuries. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2017; 27:1170-1180. [PMID: 28329441 DOI: 10.1111/sms.12883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The etiology of running-related injury is important to consider as the effectiveness of a given running-related injury prevention intervention is dependent on whether etiologic factors are readily modifiable and consistent with a biologically plausible causal mechanism. Therefore, the purpose of the present article was to present an evidence-informed conceptual framework outlining the multifactorial nature of running-related injury etiology. In the framework, four mutually exclusive parts are presented: (a) Structure-specific capacity when entering a running session; (b) structure-specific cumulative load per running session; (c) reduction in the structure-specific capacity during a running session; and (d) exceeding the structure-specific capacity. The framework can then be used to inform the design of future running-related injury prevention studies, including the formation of research questions and hypotheses, as well as the monitoring of participation-related and non-participation-related exposures. In addition, future research applications should focus on addressing how changes in one or more exposures influence the risk of running-related injury. This necessitates the investigation of how different factors affect the structure-specific load and/or the load capacity, and the dose-response relationship between running participation and injury risk. Ultimately, this direction allows researchers to move beyond traditional risk factor identification to produce research findings that are not only reliably reported in terms of the observed cause-effect association, but also translatable in practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M L Bertelsen
- Section for Sports Science, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - A Hulme
- Australian Collaboration for Research into Injury in Sport and its Prevention, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, Vic., Australia
| | - J Petersen
- Section for Sports Science, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - R K Brund
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, SMI®, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - H Sørensen
- Section for Sports Science, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - C F Finch
- Australian Collaboration for Research into Injury in Sport and its Prevention, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, Vic., Australia
| | - E T Parner
- Section of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - R O Nielsen
- Section for Sports Science, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lin SY, Su PF, Chung CH, Hsia CC, Chang CH. Stiffness Effects in Rocker-Soled Shoes: Biomechanical Implications. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0169151. [PMID: 28046009 PMCID: PMC5207519 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0169151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rocker-soled shoes provide a way to reduce the possible concentration of stress, as well as change movement patterns, during gait. This study attempts to examine how plantar force and spatio-temporal variables are affected by two rocker designs, one with softer and one with denser sole materials, by comparing them with the barefoot condition and with flat-soled shoes. Eleven subjects' gait parameters during walking and jogging were recorded. Our results showed that compared with barefoot walking, plantar forces were higher for flat shoes while lower for both types of rocker shoes, the softer-material rocker being the lowest. The plantar force of flat shoes is greater than the vertical ground reaction force, while that of both rocker shoes is much less, 13.87-30.55% body weight. However, as locomotion speed increased to jogging, for all shoe types, except at the second peak plantar force of the denser sole material rocker shoes, plantar forces were greater than for bare feet. More interestingly, because the transmission of force was faster while jogging, greater plantar force was seen in the rocker-soled shoes with softer material than with denser material; results for higher-speed shock absorption in rocker-soled shoes with softer material were thus not as good. In general, the rolling phenomena along the bottom surface of the rocker shoes, as well as an increase in the duration of simultaneous curve rolling and ankle rotation, could contribute to the reduction of plantar force for both rocker designs. The possible mechanism is the conversion of vertical kinetic energy into rotational kinetic energy. To conclude, since plantar force is related to foot-ground interface and deceleration methods, rocker-design shoes could achieve desired plantar force reduction through certain rolling phenomena, shoe-sole stiffness levels, and locomotion speeds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Yun Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Information and Communications Research Laboratories, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Fang Su
- Department of Statistics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hua Chung
- Department of Statistics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chun Hsia
- Information and Communications Research Laboratories, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Tainan, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
| | - Chih-Han Chang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|