Computational modelling of foot orthosis for midfoot arthritis: a Taguchi approach for design optimization

Abstract

Insole with high arch (H = 30 mm), low stiffness (E = 1.0 MPa), and medium wedge angle (A = 5°) could minimize the stress of the cartilage at the arthritic joint (primary outcome) and could be beneficial to the patients. Also, insole stiffness predominantly influenced cartilage stress. However, secondary outcomes including the stress of the navicular and medial cuneiform and the regional plantar stress did not produce the same solution. Future studies can consider a patient-specific loading profile to further the investigation on the stabilizing effect and the attenuation of load transfer induced by the insole.