[Measuring plantar weight distribution of shoes with forefoot support]

Differences in weight bearing using forefoot relief ortheses available on the German market.

Six different forefoot relief shoes were tested. All ten probands wearing the same shoe-size, had a physiological foot anatomy and a normal gait. Contact time, contact area, maximum pressure and the pressure-time integral were assessed in six different areas of the sole. We used the dynamic device Fast SCAN by MEGASCAN placing the sensor inside the orthesis.

A reduction of the pressure underneath the forefoot was seen with all sample shoes. In particular 3 types showed favourable parameters. The Metasan walking aid keeping the forefoot hanging free, reduced the pressure to almost zero compared to barefoot walking. The Forefoot relief orthesis with protective shield--also not supporting the forefoot--permitted a reduction down to 20% of the barefoot pressure. The Forefoot relief orthesis Dr. L. S. Barouk is reducing the pressure to 20% as well, allows a safer gait by lifting the front parts of the foot. Concerning the gait line remarkable differences between the shoe-types are seen. In all samples the front tipping edge of the shoe was free of peak loading.

The shoes tested do reduce the pressure under the toes and under the metatarsals. They are not suitable for the postoperative care of proximal metatarsal or tarsometatarsal osteotomies.