Pedobarography

Pedobarography is the study of pressure fields operating between the plantar surface of the foot and a supporting surface. Used in medical and sports contexts, pedobarography is a valuable tool for assessing foot function and diagnosing foot disorders. This technique involves capturing dynamic (during motion) and static (at rest) pressure distribution and magnitude across the plantar aspect of the foot over time.

Overview

Pedobarography is performed using specialized equipment, such as pressure mats, insoles, and platforms, which contain sensors to measure the pressure exerted by the foot. The data collected can be visualized as pressure maps, which are color-coded representations of the pressure distribution. These maps help in identifying abnormal foot function, areas of high pressure that may lead to ulceration in diabetic patients, and the effectiveness of orthotic interventions.

Clinical Applications

Pedobarography is widely used in various clinical settings for:

• Diagnosing foot abnormalities, such as flat feet and high arches.
• Assessing gait abnormalities and their impact on foot pressure distribution.
• Monitoring the healing process of foot ulcers, especially in diabetic patients, to prevent re-ulceration.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of orthotic devices in redistributing foot pressure.
• Pre-surgical planning and post-surgical assessment of foot surgeries.

Techniques

There are two main types of pedobarography:

• Static pedobarography: Measures the pressure distribution on the foot when the individual is standing still. It provides insight into the load distribution under the foot in a stationary position.
• Dynamic pedobarography: Measures the pressure distribution while walking or running. This method is more informative for assessing the functional aspects of foot pressure during movement.

Equipment

The equipment used in pedobarography includes:

• Pressure mats: Used for both static and dynamic measurements, these mats contain thousands of pressure sensors to capture foot pressure data.
• In-shoe systems: Consist of thin, flexible insoles equipped with pressure sensors to measure the pressure inside the shoe during daily activities.
• Pressure platforms: Similar to pressure mats but are often used in a clinical setting for more detailed analysis.

Data Analysis

The analysis of pedobarographic data involves the examination of pressure maps, peak pressures, pressure-time integrals, and the center of pressure trajectory. Advanced software is used to analyze these parameters, providing detailed insights into foot function and pathology.

Limitations

While pedobarography is a powerful tool for assessing foot mechanics, it has limitations. The interpretation of data requires expertise, and the equipment can be expensive, limiting its availability in some settings. Additionally, the results can be influenced by the patient's walking speed, footwear, and the type of surface they walk on.