A fundamental characteristic of the human body and foot, the foot-ground pressure pattern.

Abstract A new method and instrument developed by the authors allows a simultaneous recording of the pressure distribution between each foot and the ground during either standing or walking. The light reflected from a special sandwich plate produces an interference pattern which is a function of the contact pressure. The pressure distribution is displayed simultaneously on the whole contact surface as a diagram: the foot-ground pressure pattern (FGP). Quantitative data and new parameters representative of the mechanics of the foot for standing posture are proposed. These will provide a better description and understanding of the mechanics of the foot and the human body. The method may yield important data for the evaluation of prosthetic-orthotic appliances, in post-operative follow-up of orthopedic patients, and in the mechanics of rehabilitation.