Changes in Gait Characteristics due to Outsole Structure of Shoe

Abstract:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in kinematic and kinetic gait characteristics due to outsole structure of the shoe. In this experiment, cushioning shoe having cushion for heel (BOSS Corps., Korea) which is designed as a lever, MBT having an unstable rounded shoe (Masai Barefoot Technology, MBT, Swiss) and normal running shoe (Adidas, Germany) were compared. The experiment was performed walking on the straight walkway (10m x 3m) five times with preferred walking speed. 3D motion capture system was used to acquire kinematic and kinetic data using six infrared cameras and two force plates. For comparison among shoes, walking velocity, hip, knee and ankle joint angles (range of motion, trajectory), ground reaction force (loading rate, the decay rate, maximal vertical ground reaction force), and center of mass - center of pressure inclination angle (COM-COP angle) were used. The results showed that there were different effects of types of shoe on lower extremities. Joint angle trajectory of ankle, joint range of motion (ROM) of the hip, and peak force were significantly different among shoe types. MBT provided a decreased impact force. Cushioning shoe provided increased progressive force, decreased loading rate, and decreased COM-COP angle. For further study, it is necessary to analyze additional subjects (i.e., elderly) and long-term effects.

• Periodical: Applied Mechanics and Materials (Volume 775)
• Pages: 28-33
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMM.775.28
• Online since: July 2015
• Authors: Jin Seung Choi, Dong Won Kang, Jeong Woo Seo, Ju Young Kim, Seung Tae Yang, Dae Hyeok Kim, Gye Rae Tack*
• Keywords: Functional Shoe, Ground Reaction Force, Kinematic, Outsole Structure, Walking

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