A comparison between how off-the-shelf insoles and custom foot orthoses affect peak pressure on the bottom of the foot.

Introduction

In this study, our goal was to prove statistically significant differences in peak pressure distribution between a number of different insoles and foot orthoses. An increase in peak pressure on the bottom of the foot is often linked to an increased risk of injury in the lower leg. Over 500,000 data points were collected and analyzed to attempt to find a statistically significant change in peak pressure distribution between products when compared to a control (bare feet).

Setup

5 different insoles compared to a control (bare feet). A Tekscan pressure mapping pad was used to measure peak pressure, force, and the overall area the force was being applied to. In order to collect consistent data, the orientation of the participant's feet was critical. In this study, the participant's feet were placed on top of each insole and foot orthoses which were located on top of the Teckscan pressure mapping pad during data collection.

Data Collection

There were six different tests run with the control (bare feet) and each of the other insoles and foot orthoses. For each test, the participant stood still for 10 seconds while raw pressure & force data was recorded across the entire foot (both left and right). The participant was instructed to even distribute pressure across both feet. Data was exported in CSV format to later be analyzed.

Results

See below for the resultant data collection.

Bare Feet (Control)

inStryde

Wiivv

Upstep

Aline

Superfeet Blue

Max peak pressure measured per insole

% change in peak pressure compared to control

Discussion

Besides inStryde, all insoles and orthoses that were tested increased peak pressure on the bottom of the foot and showed statistically significant changes when compared to the control (bare feet).

Conclusion

Our data shows that wearing off-the-shelf insoles can increase the maximum peak pressure on the bottom of your feet and can increase your risk of injury to the lower leg. inStrydes were the only product tested that reduced peak pressure, thus lowering your risk of a lower leg injury.