Title:
Frontal Plane Characteristics of Multi-Axis Feet: A Test Method for Evaluation and Effect of Shoes on Foot Performance
Frontal Plane Characteristics of Multi-Axis Feet: A Test Method for Evaluation and Effect of Shoes on Foot Performance
Author(s)
Gaw, Stephen
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Abstract
Introduction: The purpose of this project is to analyze the stiffness properties of multiaxis
prosthetic feet in the frontal plane, and analyze the influence on mechanical testing of those feet
when a shoe is worn. We hypothesize: (1) Stiffness properties of multiaxis feet in the frontal
plane will vary significantly, and the feet will naturally divide into subcategories based on
stiffness properties, and (2) Testing with shoes will influence the stiffness properties in the
frontal plane of the multiaxis prosthetic foot.
Methods: 6 multiaxis prosthetic feet (including dynamic response/multiaxis feet) were tested
on an Instron materials testing machine. The feet underwent cyclic loading to simulate
midstance phase of gait, and were loaded onto a range of inclines from 0° to 20°. The tests were
repeated with a shoe added to the feet. A SACH foot was also tested for comparison purposes.
Results: There was significant variability among the feet when tested barefoot. The SACH
foot displayed a lower stiffness than 3 of the multiaxis feet at all inclines. Statistical analysis
showed there were natural divisions among the feet according to stiffness data. When the feet
were tested with a shoe, the stiffness decreased for all feet in all conditions, although the
magnitude of the change varied by foot. Natural divisions among feet were also present when
tested with a shoe, but the divisions were different than when tested barefoot.
Discussion: The results showed that stiffness properties among multiaxis feet did vary, and
the feet did divide themselves naturally. When tested with a shoe, stiffness decreased for all feet
in all conditions. Limitations of this study include anonymity of feet, variability of shoes, and
small aspect of gait cycle.
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Date Issued
2008-04-23
Extent
17:19 minutes
Resource Type
Moving Image
Resource Subtype
Masters Project
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