Analysis of ground-foot reaction forces in patients with myelomeningocele.
This paper describes a system for evaluation of ground-foot reaction forces in which multiple 1 centimeter diameter metal coated points transmit pressure to a photoelastic sheet. The pressure generates circular interference patterns, the diameters of which are linearly related to the pressure applied. The system permits the computerized construction of a three-dimensional contour map which can be compared to a pedobarograph. The qualitative/quantitative assessment system can identify areas on the plantar aspect of the foot at risk for skin breakdown. This information will permit treatment to proceed on a more rational basis than has been possible heretofore.
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D005531:Foot Deformities, Acquired / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D008591:Meningomyelocele / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology; D011312:Pressure