Pressure-Relief Effect of Post-Op Shoes Depends on Correct Usage WhileWalking
Loading...
Date
Publisher
MDPI
Abstract
Post-op shoes (POSs) are commonly used after forefoot surgery to protect the
surgical site. However, there are insufficient data on their impact on forefoot load during
the rollover phase of walking. This study aims to analyze the effects of a commonly used
POS on plantar pressures under the forefoot and to assess whether improper usage could
affect pressure patterns. Sixteen healthy volunteers underwent three different walking tests
on a straight tartan track. The test setting included walking barefoot, as well as normal
walking and a modified heel-accentuated “limping” gait while wearing a common POS.
The pressure distribution over the forefoot regions of interest was measured using sensor
insoles and a pressure-measuring plate on the ground. Results show that only the heelaccentuated
“limping” gait in the POS led to a significant reduction in pressure values over
all anatomical regions compared to the normal barefoot gait. Furthermore, higher pressure
values were found over the lesser toes during normal walking in the POS compared to
normal barefoot walking. The findings highlight that the protective function of a POS relies
on proper use, specifically the correct gait pattern. If used incorrectly, POS may even have
unfavorable effects on the pressure on the operated forefoot and possibly even increase
the risk of delayed healing or complications in comparison to barefoot walking. Therefore,
strategies such as patient training in proper walking techniques should be incorporated
into postoperative care.
Metadata
License
Except where otherwised noted, this item's license is described as Attribution 4.0 International