Anatomical plantar pressure masking and foot models: potential for integration with marker position systems

Background Investigation of local foot loading using baropodometry is highly relevant in both research and clinical settings. In order to reliably associate local pressure data with foot function and structure, anatomy-based masking of footprints is recommended, especially when foot anatomy or footprints are significantly altered. Previous studies combining baropodometry with stereophotogrammetry have shown the value of this methodology in specific, prototype-based situations [1,2]. This study thoroughly investigates the potential of this method.