Pressure Distribution Under the Feet on the Treadmill Walking with Unstable Shoes and Regular Running Shoes in Different Conditions

The aim of this study was to test if there is a significant change in the foot loading in a shoe with an unstable construction to flat soled shoes. Measurements were performed in a group of ten healthy women. Interaction between the sole and the insole was observed when using PEDAR-x system. Measurements were carried out on the treadmill (velocity: 5 and 7 km h-1, inclination: 0 and 10%). Measured variables were: peak pressure, maximum force in the vertical direction, maximum force in the vertical direction in the area below the heel bone, stride and stance. Peak pressure in unstable shoes is smaller in comparison to normal shoes. For maximal vertical force the dependence on both the speed and on the slope was found to be positive and significant. No significant dependence on the shoe type was proven. Maximal vertical force under the heel was detected as strongly statistically dependent on the velocity; the dependence on the slope and shoe type was significant (negative) too. Stride and stance duration are dependent on the shoe type. No significant dependence on the slope was proven. Unstable footwear may be an effective therapeutic tool for elimination of pressure below the heel.