[Plantar pressure distribution in inline skating on straights]

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Science
• Podiatry

Background:

• Understanding plantar pressure distribution is crucial for analyzing biomechanics during physical activities.
• Inline skating involves unique foot loading patterns that require specific investigation.
• Previous research has not fully detailed plantar pressure specifics during inline skating at varying speeds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and quantify plantar pressure distribution in experienced inline skaters.
• To identify key areas of high pressure during straight-line inline skating.
• To assess the effect of skating speed on plantar pressure distribution.

Main Methods:

• Plantar pressure was measured using a flexible insole in 13 experienced inline skaters.
• Data was collected while skating on a straight path at two speeds: 18 km/h and 24 km/h.
• Peak pressures were analyzed across different regions of the foot.

Main Results:

• High peak pressures were consistently observed in the heel (258-265 kPa), first metatarsal head (265-281 kPa), and hallux (319-324 kPa).
• These high-pressure areas were significantly greater than other foot regions, with the midfoot showing the lowest pressures.
• Increasing skating speed from 18 to 24 km/h resulted in a minor increase in peak pressures across all measured areas.

Conclusions:

• Inline skating generates distinct high-pressure zones on the plantar surface, primarily the heel, first metatarsal head, and hallux.
• Plantar pressure distribution is speed-dependent, with higher speeds leading to slightly elevated peak pressures.
• The measured peak pressures during inline skating are comparable to walking and tend to be lower than those during running.