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Subject-Specific Finite Element Analysis of the Foot Using a Simplified Parametric Bone Model from Weight-Bearing
Olamide Robiat Hassan1,2, Siwoo Jung1, Youngbin Lim3
1Division of Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea.
Annals of Biomedical Engineering
|August 10, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a new method using X-ray images to create simplified 3D foot models for biomechanical analysis. This approach offers a faster, more accessible way to understand foot mechanics and design custom orthotics.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Medical Imaging
- Computational Modeling
Background:
- Accurate foot biomechanics analysis is crucial for understanding plantar load distribution.
- Traditional finite element analysis (FEA) requires costly and radiation-intensive CT scans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel pipeline for generating a simplified, parametric 3D foot bone model from weight-bearing X-ray images.
- To evaluate the feasibility of this X-ray-based model for personalized foot analysis.
Main Methods:
- A parametric 3D foot bone model was constructed from four-view X-ray images.
- The model was embedded into the foot's scanned surface and analyzed using FEA under static standing conditions.
- Plantar pressure data validated the model against experimental measurements and a CT-based model.
Main Results:
- The simplified model accurately reproduced experimental plantar pressure patterns with low relative errors (4.38-8.33%).
- Computation time was reduced by approximately 90% compared to traditional methods.
- Consistent performance was observed across subjects with diverse foot conditions.
Conclusions:
- X-ray-based parametric modeling offers a lightweight, scalable alternative for personalized foot analysis.
- Potential applications include rapid orthotic design, low-resource biomechanical assessment, and large-scale screening.