In modern foot health management, the “plantar pressure distribution system” is quietly becoming an important tool for assessing foot conditions. Many people have heard this term when customizing insoles, rehabilitation training, or even choosing sports shoes. So, what exactly is it? What problems can be seen? This article will take you to uncover the principle of the plantar pressure distribution system and understand the “invisible signals” of plantar health.
1. What is the plantar pressure distribution system?
The plantar pressure distribution system is a system that uses a high-precision sensor array to collect pressure change data when the sole of the foot contacts the ground when a person is standing or walking. It can accurately map the pressure size and distribution state of each area of the sole at different time nodes, forming a “plantar pressure heat map”.
Simply put, when you step on the sensor plate, the system can “see” the force applied to each area of your sole, and convert it into images and numbers to help analyze whether there are foot abnormalities or gait problems.
2. How does it work?
The plantar pressure distribution system usually consists of three parts:
Sensing platform or insole: embedded with multiple high-sensitivity pressure sensors, it can sense every pressure point on the sole from the heel to the toe.
Data acquisition and processing software: receive sensor signals in real time, and generate plantar pressure map, center of gravity trajectory, gait curve, etc. through algorithms.
Visual output system: present the collected data in the form of color, numerical value, graph, etc., to help analysts quickly determine whether the foot load is balanced.
3. What problems can it see?
Arch structure problem
By observing whether the force area of the sole is concentrated on the inside or outside, it can be determined whether there are structural abnormalities such as flat feet, high arches, foot eversion or foot inversion.
Abnormal gait
The system can record the force rhythm of each step when walking, such as whether there is dragging, excessive swinging, center of gravity shift, etc., which will affect the health of the knees and lumbar spine.
Unbalanced strength of left and right feet
Some people have a situation where one foot bears more weight, which is easy to cause long-term unilateral fatigue, spinal crookedness and even muscle compensatory injury.
Sports Posture Optimization
For running enthusiasts or athletes, the plantar pressure system can also help optimize the action links such as take-off, landing, and propulsion, improve sports performance and reduce the risk of injury.
Pathological foot problems
Such as diabetic foot, plantar fasciitis, hallux valgus, etc., the plantar pressure map can be used to observe abnormal stress points, providing important basis for doctors’ diagnosis and treatment.
4. Who is suitable for plantar pressure testing?
People who often have foot pain, knee pain, and back pain but can’t find the cause
People who suspect they have foot structure problems
Children and adolescents, especially during the growth period, monitor foot development
Middle-aged and elderly people, prevent falls and foot degeneration
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts, optimize sports posture
People who need foot protection, such as diabetics and elderly patients
