Effect of Foot Orthoses on Angular Velocity of Feet

Abstract

There is some uncertainty regarding how foot orthoses (FO) affect the biomechanics of the lower extremities during running in non-injured individuals. This study aims to describe the behavior of the angular velocity of the foot in the stride cycle measured with a low-sampling-rate IMU device commonly used by podiatrists. Specific objectives were to determine if there are differences in angular velocity between the right and left foot and to determine the effect of foot orthoses (FO) on the 3D angular velocity of the foot during running. The sample was composed of 40 male adults (age: 43.0 ± 13.8 years, weight: 72.0 ± 5.5 kg, and height: 175.5 ± 7.0 cm), who were healthy and without any locomotor system alterations at the time of the test. All subjects use FO on a regular basis. The results show that there are significant differences in the transverse plane between feet, with greater differences in the right foot. Significant differences between FO and non-FO conditions were observed in the frontal and transverse planes on the left foot and in the sagittal and transverse planes on the right foot. FO decreases the velocity of the foot in dorsi-plantar flexion and abduction and increases the velocity in inversion. The kinematic changes in foot velocity occur between 30% and 60% of the complete cycle, and the FO reduces the velocity in abduction and dorsi–plantar flexion and increases the velocity in inversion–eversion, which facilitates the transition to the oscillating leg and with it the displacement of the center of mass. Quantifying possible asymmetries and assessing the effect of foot orthoses may aid in improving running mechanics and preventing injuries in individuals.