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Frontiers in Bioengineering and... 2024Corrective shoe insoles are prescribed for a range of foot deformities and are typically designed based on a subjective assessment limiting personalization and...
Corrective shoe insoles are prescribed for a range of foot deformities and are typically designed based on a subjective assessment limiting personalization and potentially leading to sub optimal treatment outcomes. The incorporation of techniques in the design and customization of insoles may improve personalized correction and hence insole efficiency. We developed an workflow for insole design and customization using a combination of measured motion capture, inverse musculoskeletal modelling as well as forward simulation approaches to predict the kinematic response to specific insole designs. The developed workflow was tested on twenty-seven participants containing a combination of healthy participants (7) and patients with flatfoot deformity (20). Average error between measured and simulated kinematics were 4.7 ± 3.1, 4.5 ± 3.1, 2.3 ± 2.3, and 2.3 ± 2.7° for the chopart obliquity, chopart anterior-posterior axis, tarsometatarsal first ray, and tarsometatarsal fifth ray joints respectively. : The developed workflow offers distinct advantages to previous modeling workflows such as speed of use, use of more accessible data, use of only open-source software, and is highly automated. It provides a solid basis for future work on improving predictive accuracy by adapting the currently implemented insole model and incorporating additional data such as plantar pressure.
PubMed: 38464541
DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1351403 -
PloS One 2024Individuals with flatfoot have impaired proprioception owing to ligament laxity and impaired tendons, which can result in poor balance. Foot orthoses (FOs) have been... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
Individuals with flatfoot have impaired proprioception owing to ligament laxity and impaired tendons, which can result in poor balance. Foot orthoses (FOs) have been reported to stimulate plantar mechanical receptors and are used to manage foot overpronation in individuals with flatfoot. However, the results of the use of FOs to improve balance are inconsistent. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to identify and investigate the effects of FOs on balance in individuals with flatfoot. Electronic databases were searched for articles published before March 2023. Peer-reviewed journal studies that included adult participants with flexible flatfoot and reported the effects of FOs on balance were included and classified based on the study design: randomized control trials (RCT) and non-RCTs. Four RCT studies were retained, and their methodological quality was assessed (mean, 63.2%; range 47.3%-73.1%: high), as were three non-RCT studies (mean, 54.1%; range, 42.1%-68.4%: high). Meta-analysis was performed by calculating the effect size using the standardized mean differences between the control and FO conditions. Transverse-arch insoles immediately improved static balance after use. However, no immediate significant effect was found for medial archsupport FOs, cuboid-posting FOs, or University of California Berkeley Laboratory FOs during the study period (2-5 weeks) when compared with the controls. The transverse-arch insole is the most effective FO feature for improving static balance. However, the high heterogeneity between study protocols contributes to the lack of evidence for the effects of FO on balance in people with flatfoot.
Topics: Humans; Flatfoot; Foot; Foot Orthoses; Lower Extremity; Tarsal Bones; Postural Balance
PubMed: 38457399
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299446 -
Foot and Ankle Surgery : Official... Jul 2024The purpose of this study was to compare automatic software-based angular measurement (AM) with validated measurement by hand (MBH) regarding angle values and time spent... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
BACKGROUND
The purpose of this study was to compare automatic software-based angular measurement (AM) with validated measurement by hand (MBH) regarding angle values and time spent for Weight-Bearing CT (WBCT) generated datasets.
METHODS
Five-hundred WBCT scans from different pathologies were included in the study. 1st - 2nd intermetatarsal angle, talo-1st metatarsal angle dorsoplantar and lateral, hindfoot angle, calcaneal pitch angle were measured and compared between MBH and AM.
RESULTS
The pathologies were ankle osteoarthritis/instability, n = 147 (29%); Haglund deformity/Achillodynia, n = 41 (8%); forefoot deformity, n = 108 (22%); Hallux rigidus, n = 37 (7%); flatfoot, n = 35 (7%); cavus foot, n = 10 (2%); osteoarthritis except ankle, n = 82 (16%). The angles did not differ between MBH and AM (each p > 0.36). The time spent for MBH / AM was 44.5 / 1 s on average per angle (p < .001).
CONCLUSIONS
AM provided angles which were not different from validated MBH and can be considered as a validated angle measurement method. The time spent was 97% lower for AM than for MBH.
LEVELS OF EVIDENCE
Level III.
Topics: Humans; Weight-Bearing; Tomography, X-Ray Computed; Software; Female; Imaging, Three-Dimensional; Male; Middle Aged; Adult; Aged
PubMed: 38448344
DOI: 10.1016/j.fas.2024.02.016 -
The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery :... 2024The optimal extent of arthrodesis for severe and rigid progressive collapsing foot deformity is controversial. Traditionally, triple arthrodesis has been recommended;... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
The optimal extent of arthrodesis for severe and rigid progressive collapsing foot deformity is controversial. Traditionally, triple arthrodesis has been recommended; however, good results have been reported using subtalar arthrodesis only. We compared the results of triple arthrodesis and isolated subtalar repositional arthrodesis. A total of 22 symptomatic feet were evaluated retrospectively. Isolated subtalar repositional arthrodesis was performed in 13 cases (the subtalar group) and double or triple arthrodesis in 9 cases (the triple group). Various radiographic variables for assessing flatfoot and osteoarthritic changes in ankle and tarsal joints were measured and compared between the 2 groups at 3 time points: preoperatively, 3 months postoperatively, and 4 y postoperatively. Additionally, we analyzed various factors that affect postoperative valgus talar tilt in the ankle joint, which has been associated with poor prognosis. There were no differences in preoperative demographic data and the severity of the disease between the 2 groups; both groups showed improvement in radiographic parameters postoperatively compared with preoperative results. With the numbers available, no significant differences could be detected in postoperative radiographic measurements between the 2 groups. Of all the variables analyzed, postoperative hindfoot alignment angle was associated with postoperative talar tilt development. Additionally, postoperative talar tilt was observed more in triple group than in subtalar group. In conclusion, isolated subtalar repositional arthrodesis is an effective procedure to correct advanced progressive collapsing foot deformity. In addition, Chorpart joint arthrodesis with improper position can cause valgus talar tilt in the ankle joint.
Topics: Humans; Arthrodesis; Male; Female; Retrospective Studies; Middle Aged; Subtalar Joint; Adult; Aged; Radiography; Treatment Outcome; Flatfoot; Foot Deformities, Acquired; Ankle Joint
PubMed: 38447799
DOI: 10.1053/j.jfas.2024.02.002 -
Foot & Ankle International May 2024Establishing a surgical plan for ankle deformities necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the deforming forces involved, and the morphology of the ankle deformity...
BACKGROUND
Establishing a surgical plan for ankle deformities necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the deforming forces involved, and the morphology of the ankle deformity plays an important role as well. Valgus tibiotalar tilt development has mostly been described in patients with a low medial longitudinal arch, as seen in progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD). However, some valgus ankles demonstrate no radiographic evidence of a collapsed medial arch. This study aims to investigate whether there are differences in the radiographic morphology of valgus ankle deformities between patients with and without a low medial longitudinal arch to explore if they have different etiologies.
METHODS
We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent surgical treatment for asymmetric valgus ankle deformity at our institution between 2017 and 2021. Patients with a valgus tibiotalar tilt (TT) greater than 4 degrees and Meary angle greater than 30 degrees (mean: 38.9) were included in the PCFD group (n = 29). The non-PCFD group (n = 24) with TT greater than 4 degrees and Meary angle less than 4 degrees (mean: 0.3) was also established. In the weightbearing ankle anteroposterior view, the TT and medial distal tibial angle were measured. Additionally, to assess the mediolateral position of the talus, the talar center migration (TCM) and lateral talar dome-plafond distance (LTD-P) ratio in the coronal plane were measured. In weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT), the degree of axial plane talocalcaneal subluxation and the prevalence of sinus tarsi bony impingement were assessed. Intergroup comparison was conducted.
RESULTS
Both groups demonstrated a similar degree of TT, with a mean of 11.6 degrees in the PCFD group and 13.7 degrees in the non-PCFD group ( = .2330). However, the PCFD group showed a significantly greater TCM and LTD-P ratio compared with those of the non-PCFD group ( < .0001), indicating that PCFD patients have a more medially translated talus in ankle anteroposterior radiographs. WBCT showed that the PCFD group on average had 18 degrees greater axial plane talocalcaneal subluxation ( < .0001) and 52% higher prevalence of sinus tarsi bony impingement ( = .0002) compared with the non-PCFD group.
CONCLUSION
This study suggests that valgus ankles may exhibit different radiographic morphologies depending on the status of the longitudinal arch. Valgus ankles in PCFD patients tend to have a more medially translated talus. This finding may suggest the presence of different deforming forces between the 2 groups and may indicate the need for different treatment strategies to address talar tilt.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
Level III, case-control.
Topics: Humans; Retrospective Studies; Ankle Joint; Radiography; Middle Aged; Male; Female; Adult; Talus; Aged; Foot Deformities; Tibia
PubMed: 38445609
DOI: 10.1177/10711007241231230 -
The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery :... 2024In recent years, anterior tibiofibular ligament-distal fascicle transfers for anterior talofibular ligament augmentation repair have proposed. However, a comprehensive...
Anterior Talofibular Ligament Repair in Combination With Anterior Tibiofibular Ligament Distal Fascicle Transfer for The Treatment of Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability: A Finite Element Analysis.
In recent years, anterior tibiofibular ligament-distal fascicle transfers for anterior talofibular ligament augmentation repair have proposed. However, a comprehensive biomechanical study on the anterior tibiofibular ligament-distal fascicle transfer is still lacking. We are established four distinct groups, namely the normal, the anterior talofibular ligament rupture, the anterior talofibular ligament repair, and the anterior talofibular ligament repair + anterior tibiofibular ligament-distal fascicle transfer. We assessed the anterior drawer test and varus stress test of the ankle in each group. Moreover, we employed the model to simulate and compute the total displacement and von-Mises stress of the talus cartilage at varying gait phases, including foot strike, tibia vertical, and toe-off phases. The results of the anterior drawer test and varus stress test revealed that the anterior talofibular ligament repair + anterior tibiofibular ligament-distal fascicle transfer group exhibited greater closeness to the normal group. Regarding von-Mises stress in cartilage, the three gait instants had higher values in the anterior talofibular ligament repair + anterior tibiofibular ligament-distal fascicle transfer group than the other groups. Nevertheless, regarding total displacement, the toe-off phases exhibited higher values in the anterior talofibular ligament repair + anterior tibiofibular ligament-distal fascicle transfer group than the other groups. Using ATiFL-DF transfer to augment ATFL repair is a potential feasible procedure. However, this procedure could potentially compromise the anterior tibiofibular ligament's contribution to the dynamic stability of the ankle. Therefore, we recommend conducting further in-depth research to ensure the suitability and success of this technique in a clinical environment.
Topics: Humans; Lateral Ligament, Ankle; Joint Instability; Finite Element Analysis; Ankle Joint; Biomechanical Phenomena; Adult; Male; Chronic Disease
PubMed: 38438102
DOI: 10.1053/j.jfas.2024.02.001 -
Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal... Feb 2024The association between changes occurring in the spine and lower body parts is not well understood in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).
BACKGROUND
The association between changes occurring in the spine and lower body parts is not well understood in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).
OBJECTIVES
The first aim of the study was to investigate the association of scoliosis with lower extremity (LE) alignments, foot characteristics, and muscle strengths in adolescents. Secondly, comparisons of the data among AIS with single and double curves and control groups were determined.
METHODS
Thirty-one participants were recruited and classified into 3 groups; AIS with a single curve (n= 7), AIS with double curves (n= 14), and controls (n= 10). Association of the presence of scoliosis with LE alignments (Q and TC angles), LE muscle strengths (hip, knee, and ankle), and foot characteristics (arch indexes) were examined using the point biserial correlation, and the data among three groups were compared using the ANOVA.
RESULTS
Scoliosis was associated with Q angle, arch indexes, and all LE muscle strengths except for hip extensors and ankle plantar flexors strengths. Comparisons among the three groups showed significant increases in LE alignments and foot characteristics in AIS. Almost all LE muscle strengths decreased in AIS, especially for the single curve group.
CONCLUSIONS
Apart from spinal deformity, the AIS has changed in LE alignments, muscle strengths, and foot characteristics. Therapists should consider these associations and alterations for designing proper management.
PubMed: 38427464
DOI: 10.3233/BMR-230220 -
International Orthopaedics May 2024
Topics: Humans; Follow-Up Studies; Flatfoot; Orthopedic Procedures; Talus
PubMed: 38416188
DOI: 10.1007/s00264-024-06124-5 -
Foot & Ankle Orthopaedics Jan 2024Symptomatic flexible flatfoot causes alterations in gait, but exactly how this condition affects the intersegmental motion of the foot during the gait cycle remains...
BACKGROUND
Symptomatic flexible flatfoot causes alterations in gait, but exactly how this condition affects the intersegmental motion of the foot during the gait cycle remains unclear. Previous studies have examined the kinematics, yielding inconsistent findings. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate how flexible flatfoot deformity, defined as Johnson and Strom classification staging II, affects the intersegmental motion of the foot during fast walking based on a comparison with the matched control group.
METHODS
Eleven participants with symptomatic flexible flatfoot and 11 healthy matched control participants were recruited using a foot screening protocol incorporated through a foot physical examinations and radiographic measurements. All demographic characteristics exhibited comparable profiles between the groups. During controlled walking, kinematic outcomes pertaining to the hallux, hindfoot, forefoot, and tibia were collected using the multisegmental Oxford Foot Model.
RESULTS
All spatiotemporal parameters were comparable between the groups. In comparison to the control group, individuals with symptomatic flexible flatfoot demonstrated increased hallux valgus and plantarflexion, increased forefoot abduction, heightened hindfoot eversion, and internal rotation. Notably, no significant major differences were observed in the tibia motion segment. Further, significant correlations were identified between static foot measurements and the extent of the maximum deviation observed during dynamic kinematic assessments.
CONCLUSION
Compared with age- and gender-matched controls, participants with symptomatic flexible flatfoot exhibited significant gait pattern deviations. A significant correlation also exists between static foot deformity measurements and dynamic kinematic deviations. Collectively, these findings have implications for developing targeted therapeutic interventions to address flexible flatfoot.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
Level III, diagnostic study.
PubMed: 38410138
DOI: 10.1177/24730114241231245 -
Journal of Clinical Medicine Feb 2024Classifications of AAFD/PCFD have evolved with an increased understanding of the pathology involved. A review of classification systems helps identify deficiencies and... (Review)
Review
Review of Classification Systems for Adult Acquired Flatfoot Deformity/Progressive Collapsing Foot Deformity and the Novel Development of the Triple Classification Delinking Instability/Deformity/Reactivity and Foot Type.
Classifications of AAFD/PCFD have evolved with an increased understanding of the pathology involved. A review of classification systems helps identify deficiencies and respective contributions to the evolution in understanding the classification of AAFD/PCFD. Using multiple electronic database searches (Medline, PubMed) and Google search, original papers classifying AAFD/PCFD were identified. Nine original papers were identified that met the inclusion criteria. Johnson's original classification and multiple variants provided a significant leap in understanding and communicating the pathology but remained tibialis posterior tendon-focused. Drawbacks of these classifications include the implication of causality, linearity of progression through stages, an oversimplification of stage 2 deformity, and a failure to understand that multiple tendons react, not just tibialis posterior. Later classifications, such as the PCFD classification, are deformity-centric. Early ligament laxity/instability in normal attitude feet and all stages of cavus feet can present with pain and instability with minor/no deformity. These may not be captured in deformity-based classifications. The authors developed the 'Triple Classification' (TC) understanding that primary pathology is a progressive ligament failure/laxity that presents as tendon reactivity, deformity, and painful impingement, variably manifested depending on starting foot morphology. In this classification, starting foot morphology is typed, ligament laxities are staged, and deformity is zoned. This review has used identified deficiencies within classification systems for AAFD/PCFD to delink ligament laxity, deformity, and foot type and develop the 'Triple classification'. Advantages of the TC may include representing foot types with no deformity, defining complex secondary instabilities, delinking foot types, tendon reactivity/ligament instability, and deformity to represent these independently in a new classification system. Level V.
PubMed: 38398256
DOI: 10.3390/jcm13040942