ANALYSIS OF PLANTAR PRESSURE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FLAT AND NORMAL FEET USING OHM 3000

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to determine differences in plantar pressure distribution and centre of pressure (COP) characteristics in normal and at feet individuals. Methods: Forty individuals (20 normal and 20 at feet) were included in this study for pressure analysis using OHM 3000 (Mumbai, India) pressure system. Dynamic pressure parameters were recorded for four regions- toes, forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot while walking. Dynamic parameters included maximum pressure, arch index, centre of pressure excursion index, and pressure time integral (PTI). The COP excursion for both the groups were macroscopically evaluated. The independent t-test was used for determining the pressure difference between both the groups. Results:The at feet group reported maximum pressure on the midfoot region relative to the normal foot group. The PTI was recorded higher over the midfoot and the toe region in the at feet group than those of the normal foot group. The COP excursion in dynamic state was observed to be traversing straight from the heel to the hallux in at feet group in contrary to the normal foot group which demonstrated a medial shift at the forefoot region. Conclusion: The study reports that the individuals with at feet exert increased plantar pressure on the midfoot region compared to that of the normal foot individuals. The COP excursion in at feet individuals during walking is straight compared to that in the normal foot individuals, which we believe is due to reduced medial longitudinal arch and hyper pronation at the foot.