Q4E Case Study 21 – Gait Analysis: Effect of an unstable shoe construction Proposed Subject usage: Introduction Gait analysis measure the mechanical factors of joint loading, orientation, and neuromuscular function during walking. The core technology for this analysis is the motion capture system. By tracking markers on each limb segment of the lower limb, joint angles at the knee hip and ankle can be measured. Linear and angular kinematics during walking have been widely analysed whilst waking barefoot and in shoes (Lythgo et al. 2009) in order to establish a ‘normal’ model and identify any factors that may lead to injury. ‘Unstable shoe constructions’ were originally used clinically to help treat conditions such as plantar fasciitis, diabetes mellitus and the rehabilitation of ankle joint injuries (Hutchins et al. 2009). However they are now increasingly popular with ordinary consumers who purchase them in the belief that they will reduce stress on lower body joints and increase lower limb muscle activation thus helping to tone the lower body (Pocari et al.; Romkes et al. 2006). The gait cycle consists of a stance and swing phase of which the shoe affects mainly the stance phase. The stance phase is again split into two phases: the braking phase and the propulsive phase. Quintic Biomechanics v17 software automatically tracked four markers, Hip, Knee, Ankle and Metatarsophalangea (MTP) joints. |