抄録
Plantar sensation is essential for maintaining a stable gait, and a decline in plantar sensation destabilizes gait. In contrast, insoles and footpads may alter gait control by providing mechanical stimulation to the plantar surface. This study aimed to clarify the effect of footpad stimulation on stance phase and plantar pressure distribution in healthy adults, with particular focus on these two gait parameters. Twenty-six healthy adults (13 men and 13 women) participated in the study. The walking conditions consisted of three settings: socks only, and footpads of 1mm, and 3mm thickness. The footpads were placed at all three plantar locations: the medial side, the lateral side, and the metatarsal region. Participants were instructed to walk a distance of 7meters at their self-selected comfortable walking speed. Gait parameters were assessed using a plantar pressure measurement system, which automatically calculated the plantar pressure distribution and stance-phase characteristics. The plantar pressure distribution was divided into 10 regions, and the stance phase was classified into four sub-phases. The results showed a prolonged mid-stance duration, a shortened forefoot-loading time, increased midfoot pressure, and decreased pressure under the second metatarsal head. Footpad stimulation was found to influence plantar pressure distribution and the temporal characteristics of the stance phase.
https://ror.org/01rkrzs64 