Multi-segment foot models and their use in clinical populations

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Orthopedics
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Multi-segment foot models using skin markers are common for in-vivo kinematic analysis.
• Their clinical utility in patient populations remains uncertain.
• This review examines methodological issues and clinical applications of these models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing multi-segment foot models.
• To discuss methodological challenges.
• To analyze clinical applications in patient populations.

Main Methods:

• Extensive literature search using PubMed and Google Scholar.
• Keywords included 'multisegment', 'foot', 'model', 'kinematics', 'joints', and 'gait'.
• Included studies published between 1991 and 2018.

Main Results:

• Over 100 papers reviewed, detailing nearly 40 distinct models.
• Models varied in segment number, landmarks, marker sets, and calculation conventions.
• Few models have undergone robust validation; most clinical studies compare patient groups to controls.

Conclusions:

• Sufficient evidence supports the successful application of multi-segment foot models in clinical settings.
• Model selection should align with specific clinical applications.
• New models require thorough validation before informing clinical decisions.