Quantitative analysis of the effects of custom-molded orthoses

Abstract

307 Twenty-two subjects with a history of foot and leg problems were studied with a Musgrave Footprint System®1 and Electrodynogram®2 in-shoe pressure sensor device. Subjects were tested barefoot, in standardized running shoes, and in the same shoes with prescription subortholene orthoses (with a 4° inverted ethylene vinyl acetate heel post) made from a balanced plaster cast. Peak pressure and time to peak pressure were evaluated in several key locations beneath the foot. Repeatability testing was undertaken to assess the reliability of the sensors. Using a matched paired t-test, an important change in foot and leg biomechanical function was observed. The maximum pressure was loaded (5% to 7%) earlier on the lateral border of the foot during the gait cycle (P < 0.05). This finding suggests that forces through the foot may be changed by the use of orthoses. The “generic” effect of the custommolded (4° inverted) subortholene foot orthoses has been quantitatively shown in this study. Background