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Plantar pressure reduction in an incremental weight-bearing system
T W Flynn1, P K Canavan, P R Cavanagh
1Center for Locomotion Studies, Pennsylvania State University, University Park 16802, USA. twf104@psu.edu
Physical Therapy
|April 1, 1997
Summary
The Zuni Exercise System effectively reduces body weight support during treadmill walking and running. This system lowers vertical ground reaction forces and plantar pressures, aiding in tissue healing and reducing energy expenditure.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Rehabilitation Engineering
Background:
- Harness-supported treadmill ambulation is used to reduce weight-bearing on healing tissues and decrease energy expenditure.
- The Zuni Exercise System is a device designed for body weight support during ambulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the Zuni Exercise System's ability to support specific percentages of body weight during walking and running.
- To investigate the relationship between unloading and plantar pressure reduction in the foot.
Main Methods:
- Ten healthy male volunteers participated in the study.
- In-shoe plantar pressure and vertical ground reaction forces (GRFs) were measured.
- Measurements were taken during walking and running at full body weight and 20% body weight support.
Main Results:
- Walking with 20% body weight support reduced vertical force peaks by 23.8% and 27.2% and the force-time integral by 22.8%.
- Running with 20% body weight support reduced the vertical force peak by 19.9% and the force-time integral by 20.0%.
- Plantar pressures decreased by 6.8% to 27.8% with body weight support, with regional variability.
Conclusions:
- The Zuni Exercise System effectively reduces vertical GRF during treadmill walking and running at 20% body weight support.
- Plantar pressures are reduced with body weight support, but the extent of reduction varies across different foot regions.