Image-based midsole insert design and the material effects on heel plantar pressure distribution during simulated
Computer Methods in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering
|March 11, 2011
Summary
Finite element (FE) modeling optimizes custom shoe insoles for heel pressure relief. A 95% calcaneus-sized, medium-hardness plug significantly reduced peak pressure during walking.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Medical Imaging
- Computational Modeling
Background:
- Heel pressure can cause discomfort and injury.
- Customized footwear components may alleviate pressure.
- Finite element (FE) modeling offers a method for design optimization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate subject-specific midsole design using medical image-based FE modeling.
- To optimize heel pressure reduction through under calcaneus area (UCA) midsole plugs.
- To analyze the impact of plug dimensions, material properties, and thickness on pressure distribution.
Main Methods:
- Developed a validated FE foot model using subject-specific medical imaging.
- Incorporated UCA midsole plugs of varying relative dimensions.
- Systematically studied the effects of material properties and plug thickness on plantar pressure during heel strike.
Main Results:
- UCA midsole inserts effectively modified plantar pressure distribution.
- The effectiveness of the insert correlated with the plug's dimension relative to the calcaneus size.
- A medium hardness plug at 95% calcaneus size yielded the best peak pressure reduction.
Conclusions:
- Subject-specific FE modeling is effective for designing pressure-relieving midsole inserts.
- Optimal plug size and material properties are crucial for maximizing heel pressure reduction.
- Midsole plug design significantly influences plantar pressure during gait.