What are the functions of gait analysis systems in measuring plantar pressure distribution?

Functions of Gait Analysis Systems in Measuring Plantar Pressure Distribution

I. Application in Medical Diagnosis and Disease Screening

1. Identifying Abnormal Foot Morphology
Plantar pressure distribution maps can accurately identify common structural abnormalities such as flat feet, high arches, and foot pronation or supination.

For example, flat feet are characterized by increased contact area of the arch and pressure concentration in the heel and medial forefoot.

In contrast, high arches show reduced contact area with pressure focused on the heel and lateral forefoot.

2. Supporting the Diagnosis of Chronic Foot Conditions
Gait analysis systems can assist in diagnosing conditions such as plantar fasciitis and calcaneal spurs by detecting abnormal pressure patterns—such as elevated peak pressure in the plantar fascia area or imbalanced pressure distribution.
In diabetic foot patients, monitoring high-pressure areas on the soles allows for early detection of ulcer risk and timely intervention.

II. Application in Rehabilitation Assessment and Treatment Guidance

1. Quantifying Rehabilitation Effectiveness
By dynamically analyzing changes in plantar pressure during the gait cycle, the system can evaluate functional recovery after surgery or physical therapy.
For instance, in stroke patients, the degree of deviation in the center of pressure trajectory helps assess the recovery of balance ability.

2. Developing Personalized Correction Plans
Based on measured arch morphology and pressure distribution data, custom orthotic insoles or personalized gait training plans can be developed.
Studies show that custom insoles based on pressure data can reduce pressure in high-risk foot areas by 30%–50%, effectively alleviating pain.

III. Application in Sports Performance Optimization and Injury Prevention

1. Enhancing Athletic Performance
By analyzing plantar pressure peaks and distribution during running and jumping, gait analysis systems can optimize athletes’ movement mechanics.
For example, adjusting the forefoot push-off angle can improve sprint start efficiency by up to 15%.

2. Reducing Risk of Sports Injuries
Measurement data can identify abnormal gait patterns (such as excessive foot pronation) that cause localized high-pressure areas, guiding targeted muscle strengthening exercises.
Research shows that correcting abnormal pressure distributions can reduce the incidence of running-related injuries by 40%.

IV. Application in Product Development and Ergonomic Design

1. Optimizing Footwear Functionality
Big data from plantar pressure measurements can guide the design of athletic footwear—for instance, adding extra cushioning to high-pressure forefoot areas or adjusting sole curvature to suit different arch types.

2. Developing Smart Wearable Devices
Pressure sensors can be integrated into smart insoles to monitor gait stability in real time, especially for the elderly or special populations, helping prevent falls.

V. Application in Scientific Research and Educational Use

1. Conducting Biomechanical Studies
Collected data can be used to analyze plantar pressure characteristics in various populations (e.g., children, athletes, elderly), revealing the mechanisms of human movement and how aging affects gait patterns.

2. Serving as a Clinical Teaching Tool
Visualized plantar pressure data can be valuable in medical education, helping students understand the relationship between foot disorders and biomechanical abnormalities.