Effect of Insole Use on the Brightness of the Abductor Hallucis: Measurement Using a Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging System

Abstract

[Purpose] To clarify qualitative changes in the abductor hallucis when wearing Iritani-type Arch Support^Ⓡ, using ultrasound. [Participants and Methods] Measurement was performed in 30 healthy individuals, adopting the cross-over study design. The participants performed Task 1 (walking for 5 minutes with a control insole during a 1-week period) and Task 2 (walking for 5 minutes with Iritani-type Arch Support^Ⓡ during a 1-week period). Immediately after each task, their abductor hallucis was filmed using an ultrasound imaging system, and its brightness was measured. [Results] The brightness of the abductor hallucis significantly decreased with Iritani-type Arch Support^Ⓡ. [Conclusion] The results suggest that the improvement of gait patterns with Iritani-type Arch Support^Ⓡ not only reduces mechanical stress, but also improves foot functions.