When conducting foot health assessments and sports analysis, the plantar pressure plate has already become an indispensable tool. However, many people still have misunderstandings about its use, especially regarding the difference between static measurement and dynamic measurement. Clarifying this point helps to understand foot problems more scientifically and allows for more precise corrective insoles, athletic shoe customization, or rehabilitation plans.
First, it should be made clear that static measurement is conducted while the subject remains completely still. The subject stands with feet naturally apart or in a standard stance on the pressure plate. The pressure plate records the pressure distribution across different areas of the foot, arch load, left-to-right foot load ratio, and center of gravity position. The core value of this measurement method is to observe the structure and force balance of the foot while stationary. It is suitable for evaluating collapsed arches, flat feet, high arches, abnormal standing posture, and can also be used to assess the balance of lower limb strength distribution.
In comparison, dynamic measurement records changes in plantar pressure during walking or running. The subject walks or jogs along the pressure plate or a connected track, and the system continuously captures the entire process, including heel strike, midfoot transition, and forefoot push-off. It records pressure change curves, gait rhythm, step length, and cadence. The core value of this method is that it reveals the foot’s force characteristics during movement, such as medial or lateral pressure on the sole, gait compensation, and excessive unilateral load. Dynamic measurement is closer to real-life and sports scenarios and can detect potential risks that static measurement cannot perceive.
In summary, static measurement is like taking a “snapshot” of the foot, reflecting the mechanical balance and postural stability while standing, whereas dynamic measurement is like filming an “action scene,” showing mechanical changes and movement patterns during walking or running. Each has its focus but they are not contradictory; instead, they complement each other. Only by combining static and dynamic data can one gain a comprehensive understanding of foot health and develop more accurate corrective, training, or rehabilitation plans.
In practice, static measurement is suitable for preliminary screening, monitoring foot development in children, and assessing standing balance in the elderly. Dynamic measurement is more suitable for athlete training analysis, gait abnormality rehabilitation, and custom insoles or shoes. Scientifically using these two measurement methods not only detects foot problems but also predicts potential issues in the knees, hips, and spine, enabling early intervention to maintain overall health.
In short, static measurement mainly focuses on “maintaining balance while standing,” whereas dynamic measurement focuses on “forces while walking.” Only by combining these two methods can we truly understand the secrets of the foot and make foot health management more precise and scientific.
