2018 Volume 33 Issue 6 Pages 863-867
[Purpose] To compare vectors, representing the floor pressing force by different phalanges and metatarsals of the foot, based on the measurement site in the forefoot region and gait velocity. [Participants and Methods] Eight healthy males walked at 3 velocities (normal, high, and low). Vectors, representing the floor pressing force by the base of each distal phalanx (hallux, middle finger, and little finger) and head of each metatarsal (first and fifth) of the right foot, were measured. [Results] Independently of the velocity, the force peaked in the lateral and medial parts of the foot plantar, in this order. The heads of the metatarsals pressed to the right back direction, and the base of the distal phalanx of the hallux pressed to the right front direction. The load on the medial part increased when walking at a high velocity. [Conclusion] From the terminal stance to pre-swing phase, the floor pressing force by the base of the proximal phalanx of the hallux and heads of the metatarsal bones mainly increased. It was suggested that the floor pressing force by these parts remain strong even when walking at a different velocity.
