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The dynamic vertical force distribution during level walking under normal and rheumatic feet
Rheumatology and Rehabilitation
|May 1, 1981
Summary
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis alter their walking patterns, reducing foot impact and shifting pressure towards the foot
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Rheumatology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) significantly impacts joint function, particularly in the feet.
- Understanding altered gait mechanics in RA is crucial for managing foot complications.
- Dynamic force distribution during walking provides insights into foot loading patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze dynamic force distribution under the foot during walking in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
- To compare gait patterns of RA patients with varying foot involvement to healthy controls.
- To identify changes in walking parameters and foot loading in RA patients.
Main Methods:
- Utilized specialized apparatus to measure dynamic force distribution under the foot during walking.
- Studied a cohort including normal subjects and patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Assessed varying degrees of foot involvement in RA patients.
Main Results:
- RA patients exhibited significant gait pattern changes: slower walking speed, reduced heel-strike and push-off impacts.
- Increased double-support period and reduced forefoot impulse were observed in RA patients.
- Localized peak loads shifted medially towards the foot's center, increasing the force concentration factor.
Conclusions:
- Rheumatoid arthritis alters dynamic foot loading during walking.
- Gait modifications in RA patients aim to mitigate, rather than increase, peak foot loads.
- The study highlights the importance of analyzing force distribution changes in RA foot management.