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The purposes of this study were to clarify the electromyography (EMG) of plantar flexors and to analyze the fascicle and tendon behaviors of the gastrocnemius medialis (GM) during running in the carbon-fiber plate embedded in thicker midsole racing shoes, such as the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly (VF) and traditional racing shoes (TRAD). We compared the fascicle and series elastic element behavior of the GM and EMG of the lower limb muscles during running (14 km/h, 45 s) in athletes wearing VF or TRAD. GM EMGs in the push-off phase were approximately 50% lower in athletes wearing VF than in TRAD. Although the series elastic element behavior and/or mean fascicle-shortening velocity during the entire stance phase were not significantly different between VF and TRAD, a significant difference was found in both the mean EMG and integral EMG of the GM during the push-off phase. EMG of the gastrocnemius lateralis (GL) during the first half of the push-off phase was significantly different between VF and TRAD. Present results suggest that VF facilitates running propulsion, resulting in a decrease in GM and GL EMGs at a given running velocity during the push-off phase, leading to a reduction in metabolic cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wearing loose footwear, such as slippers, poses a risk factor for tripping. Previous studies liave examined obstacle crossing to find strategies to avoid tripping. However, the effect of wearing slippers on the likelihood of tripping remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether wearing slippers while level walking and obstacle crossing affects kinematic characteristics and muscle activity. Sixteen healthy, young adults performed two tasks (a) while wearing slippers and (b) while barefoot: (1) level walking and (2) crossing a 10-cm obstacle. Toe clearance, joint angles, muscle activity. and cocontraction were measured for both the leading and trailing lower limbs. In the slipper-wearing condition, knee flexion and hip flexion angles were significantly increased in the swing phase for the leading limb (p< .001 andp <.001, respectively) and trailing liinb (p <.001 and p =.004, respectively) compared with the barefoot condition. Tibialis anterior activity (p = .01) and muscle cocontraction of the tibialis anterior and the medial head of the gastrocnemius (p = .047) were significantly increased in the swing phase of the trailing limb for the slipper-wearing condition compared with the barefoot condition in the obstacle crossing task. Wearing slippers increased knee and hip flexion angles, and muscle cocontraction of the tibialis anterior and medial head of gastrocnemius increased during obstacle crossing. The results revealed that obstacle crossing while wearing slippers would require foot fixation adjustment in addition to increased knee and hip flexion to avoid toe collision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The appropriate choice of footwear is crucial for foot health, yet its impact on different populations and medical conditions remains understudied. This review explores the effect of shoe fit on the prevention of podiatric disorders and overall well-being. Methods: The research included major academic databases such as MEDLINE, Cochrane Central, Scopus, and PEDro, using specific keywords. A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, encompassing studies on shoe fit across diverse populations and conditions. Medical databases and grey literature were also included. Results: Five studies were included, covering topics such as footwear advice for women over 50, the effect of shoes in preventing calluses under the metatarsals, the effectiveness of a shoe-related intervention for gout patients, and the impact of custom-fitted shoes on physical activity in children with Down syndrome. Results showed that well-fitting shoes can prevent callus formation, but the efficacy of custom-fitted shoes for increasing physical activity requires further research. Conclusions: The choice of appropriate footwear should not be solely based on aesthetic considerations but rather on the specific needs of each individual. Physicians should consider providing advice on appropriate shoe characteristics as a primary intervention [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bending stiffness of footwear impacts running efficiency and lower-limb work redistribution. However, studies integrating both aspects are scarce. This study aimed to examine the impact of footwear stiffness on lower-limb biomechanics, joint work, and overall metabolic efficiency. This study was performed on 12 male recreational runners to complete an experimental protocol while wearing two different running shoes with varying degrees of longitudinal bending stiffness. Paired-sample t tests were applied in this research. The stiffer footwear decreased the range of motion (ROM), angular velocity, negative and positive work of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, and ROM of the ankle joint. The running economy significantly improved with the stiffer footwear. However, no significant difference was observed in the joint work of other lower limbs. Shoes with increased bending stiffness significantly reduced the MTP joint ROM and angular velocity, thereby reducing negative power and work at the MTP joint and improving running economy for runners. This study provided relevant information for shoe designers, developers, and scientists conducting research on footwear midsole structures and designs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Research on athletic footwear familiarisation within an older population is sparse. This is problematic because unfamiliar footwear may act as a new perturbation and modify older adults' walking gait and stability. In addition, while athletic footwear has been suggested to enhance older adults' comfort and support during activities of daily living, the necessary period for familiarisation with athletic footwear is unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the number of steps required for older adults to be familiarised with athletic footwear of different midsole thicknesses. Methods: Twenty-six healthy and physically active community-dwelling older adults, 21 females (71.1 ± 4.5 years; 164.5 ± 5.3 cm; 68.4 ± 11.4 kg) and five males (70.6 ± 2.3 years; 175.2 ± 7.8 cm; 72.8 ± 9.7 kg), completed a walking-based protocol. Participants walked two trials of 200 steps at their habitual speed on a 10-m track of an optical measurement system in three footwear conditions: (1) New Balance® REVlite 890v6 (thick midsole); (2) New Balance® REVlite 1400v5 (moderate midsole); and (3) New Balance® Minimus 20v7 (thin midsole). Gait speed (m.s-1) and walking time (min) were analysed for each participant over the 400 steps. Number of required familiarisation steps were established over three analysis phases, consisting of steady-state gait assessment, averaging and analysis of blocks of 40 steps, and sequentially comparing these steps with a predetermined threshold. Footwear familiarisation was assumed when the mean gait speed fell within an acceptable level (±2 SD from 320 to 360 step values) and subsequently maintained. Results: Most participants were familiarised with all three footwear conditions (thick n = 18; moderate and thin n = 20) after walking 80 steps. For all participants, the moderate midsole had the shortest familiarisation period (160 steps). The highest number of familiarisation steps was found in the thick (320 steps) and thin midsoles (240 steps) for some participants. Conclusion: A minimum of 320 familiarisation steps is recommended to account for both individual differences and midsole thicknesses. Implementing this walking-based footwear familiarisation protocol would improve validity of future studies, ensuring they analyse footwear effects rather than familiarisation with the footwear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Incorrectly fitting footwear (IFF) poses a risk of trauma to at‐risk feet with diabetes. The aim of this systematic review was to summarise and assess the evidence that IFF is a statistically significant cause of ulceration. Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar for English‐language peer‐reviewed studies reporting the number or percentage of people with diabetes‐related foot ulceration (DFU) attributed to wearing IFF and included a physical examination of the footwear worn. Two independent reviewers assessed the risk of bias using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. Results: 4318 results were retrieved excluding duplicates with 45 studies shortlisted. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria with most rated as fair (n = 6) or good (n = 3). There is some evidence that DFU is significantly associated with IFF, but this is limited: only 3 of 10 included studies found a statistically significant percentage of those with DFU were wearing IFF or inappropriate footwear which included fastening, material, type or fit (15.0%–93.3%). Risk of bias in these three studies ranged from 'fair' to 'poor'. IFF definitions were often unreported or heterogeneous. Only one study reported IFF‐related ulcer sites: 70% were at plantar hallux/toes and 10% at plantar metatarsal heads. Conclusions: There is some evidence that IFF is a cause of DFU, but further research is needed, which defines IFF, and methodically records footwear assessment, ulcer location and physical activity. Researchers need to uncover why IFF is worn and if this is due to economic factors, a need for footwear education or other reasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic foot syndrome is a syndrome of specific conditions affecting the foot. It is a complication of diabetes. It occurs in 12–25% of patients with diabetes. Untreated, it leads to irreversible deformities and necrosis of the foot, often resulting in amputation. In this study the statistics and consequences of diabetic foot syndrome are described. Patients with diabetes need to take care of their lower limbs. Proper footwear can prevent foot wounds. Available solutions for the prevention and treatment of diabetic foot syndrome are presented herein: footwear, insoles and requirements for footwear materials. Appropriate equipment for a person with diabetes, especially one who has been diagnosed with diabetic foot syndrome or is at risk of such a condition, includes footwear and replaceable insoles. The parameters of footwear, insoles and footwear materials that are most optimal for patients with diabetes and diabetic foot syndrome were defined. The effect of a pulsed electromagnetic field and pulsed ultrasound on diabetic foot problems was evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate relationships between static foot posture, dynamic plantar foot forces and knee pain in people with medial knee osteoarthritis (OA). Data from 164 participants with symptomatic, moderate to severe radiographic medial knee OA were analysed. Knee pain was self-reported using a numerical rating scale (NRS; scores 0–10; higher scores worse) and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score pain subscale (KOOS; scores 0–100; lower scores worse). Static foot posture was assessed using clinical tests (foot posture index, foot mobility magnitude, navicular drop). Dynamic plantar foot forces (lateral, medial, whole foot, medial-lateral ratio, arch index) were measured using an in-shoe plantar pressure system while walking. Relationships between foot posture and plantar forces (independent variables) and pain (dependent variables) were evaluated using linear regression models, unadjusted and adjusted for sex, walking speed, Kellgren & Lawrence grade, shoe category, and body mass (for dynamic plantar foot forces). No measure of static foot posture was associated with any knee pain measure. Higher medial-lateral foot force ratio at midstance, and a higher arch index during overall stance, were weakly associated with higher knee pain on the NRS (regression coefficient = 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.09 to 1.28) and KOOS (coefficient=3.03, 95% CI 0.71 to 5.35) pain scales, respectively. Dynamic plantar foot forces, but not static foot posture, were associated with knee pain in people with medial knee OA. However, the amount of pain explained by increases in plantar foot force was small; thus, these associations are unlikely to be clinically meaningful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most important role of footwear is to ensure safe, functional walking, and foot protection. For the proper functionality of not only the work shoes, the anti-slip behavior of the shoe under various conditions and environments plays an important role in the prevention of slips, trips, falls, and consequent injuries. This article is intended to review the current understanding of the frictional mechanisms between shoe outsoles and various counterfaces that impact the evaluation of outsole slipperiness. Current research focuses on the mechanisms driving outsole friction on different ground surfaces or the definition and description of parameters that influence outsole friction. Subsequently, the review discusses the effect of various surface contaminants on footwear friction. Lastly, challenges and outlooks in the field of footwear outsoles are briefly mentioned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced Footwear Technologies (AFTs) have enhanced running economy in the laboratory and improved performance in long distance events. Their resilient midsoles have renewed interest in 'energy return', the idea that elasticity in shoe soles could benefit athletic performance. This paper examines the concept of energy return, it's definition, measurement and interpretation. 'Energy return' itself is a misnomer. Running shoe cushioning is entropically elastic, not energetically elastic and a net dissipator of energy. The term is easily confused with 'rebound' and 'coefficient of restitution', but neither are equivalent. Energy return is not a material property but a nonlinear, system dynamic outcome that depends on inertia, initial conditions, geometry, pre-test conditioning and other factors. Consequently, measurements are sensitive to test protocol variations. Results from quasi-static compression tests and standard impact tests of identical ethylene vinyl acetate foam specimens give different results. Impact tests of 180 running shoe models reveal that energy return overestimates rebound height by 57%, on average. The difference is due to the potential energy deficit (Edef) created as the shoe sole is compressed, which accounts for 25–45% of total energy output. AFT shoes reduce energy expenditure by exploiting the known effects of shoe weight, cushioning and bending stiffness. The magnitude of energy return is small and differences among shoes even smaller. Any direct effects of 'energy return' on running economy remain unknown. Low density AFT foams store less energy per unit volume than conventional materials. They must be thicker and more compressible to accommodate the same input loads. Regardless of any effects on running economy, the higher energy return of AFT shoes is a necessary compensation for their inherently greater energy deficit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyse the effects of shoes with increased longitudinal bending stiffness (LBS) on 3,000 m performance, pacing strategy, heart rate, and biomechanics in trained runners. Twelve male trained runners performed a 3,000 m time trial test in an experimental shoe with a carbon fibre plate to increase the LBS (LBS-increased) and a Control shoe (without carbon fibre plate). Running performance (total time), pacing, heart rate, and biomechanical variables were registered and analysed for each 1000 m split. An individual analysis of the responders was performed based on the smallest worthwhile change. The 3,000 m time trial performance improved by 0.74% (585.83 ± 33.39 vs. 590.17 ± 34.35 s, p < 0.001, large d = 0.829) in the LBS-increased condition compared to the Control condition with a high inter-individual variability. There were no significant differences for the split effect (p = 0.898, small ηp2 = 0.021). The performance improvement was accompanied by an increase in step length (p < 0.001, large ηp2 = 0.717) throughout the time trial test and an increase of flight time in the split 1 and 2 (p < 0.05, moderate d = 0.793, 0.686, respectively) and vertical oscillation in the split 2 and 3 (p < 0.05, moderate d = 0.727, 0.652). However, the heart rate remained unchanged between conditions. The increase of LBS in footwear can improve 3,000 m performance without causing changes in the pacing strategy. Small modifications in running kinematics accompanied the improvements in running performance but without changes in heart rate. Moreover, LBS-increased did not affect all runners equally highlighting the need for further understanding of individual responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of different longitudinal bending stiffnesses (LBS) on running economy and lower extremity joint biomechanics in male and female runners. Thirty participants (15 F;15M) performed a treadmill protocol of five-minute randomised aerobic runs with four different footwear conditions varying in LBS: 16.1 N/mm; 32.7 N/mm; 46.1 N/mm; 90.1 N/mm. Biomechanical data was collected at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) and ankle joints. Running economy was quantified via oxygen consumption data. Oxygen consumption observed no significant differences between footwear conditions (p = 0.960) or significant interaction between footwear and sex (p = 0.126). Stance time observed a significant difference between footwear conditions (p < 0.001), and a significant interaction of footwear and sex (p = 0.008), increasing in females as stiffness increased. At the MTP joint, a shoe effect was present for peak bending angle (p < 0.001), peak extension (p = 0.040) and flexion (p < 0.001) angular velocity, and energy generated at the joint (p = 0.010). There was also an interaction effect of peak MTP extension angular velocity (p = 0.044), with females slightly decreasing as stiffness increased, with no reaction from males. At the ankle joint, a shoe effect was present for peak dorsiflexion (p < 0.001) and plantarflexion (p < 0.001) angular velocity, peak negative power (p < 0.001) and energy absorbed at the joint (p < 0.001). Comparing the interaction between shoe condition and male/female runners, male and female runners reacted similarly to the increased LBS with no effect on running economy and subtle changes in the stance time and MTP angular velocity for female runners. While further research is needed in this area investigating aspects related to sex-specific optimal stiffness element location and geometry, it does not appear that the stiffness magnitude has a sex dependence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Creativity and performance, as well as esthetical, artistic, psychological and marketing knowledge define the world of high-class design in the footwear industry. Beauty captured in the design of footwear and leather goods, personal design or computerized graphics are defining elements that bring high quality modernism through balance, harmony, clarity and order. In recent years, the leather industry has changed a lot, from low-cost mass production to serving customers consisting of small retail chains, where orders are small and models are varied. In order to cope with these changes, the footwear industry started investing in technological solutions. However, even today, due to the limited capacity of design software, designers frequently resort to traditional methods and techniques, often making use of their manual craftsmanship to design and make footwear components. The new technologies and the increasing involvement of the “fashion customer” lead to the emergence of new architectures in the esthetic and emotional expression of the wearer. Therefore, the article studies and analyzes the design-technology-image relationship as a scientific tool for generating ideas that define the personality of a highclass product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Motor coordination concerns are estimated to affect 5%–6% of school‐aged children. Motor coordination concerns have variable impact on children's lives, with gait and balance often affected. Textured insoles have demonstrated positive impact on balance and gait in adults with motor coordination disorders related to disease or the ageing process. The efficacy of textured insoles in children is unknown. Our primary aim was to identify the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial involving children with motor control issues. The secondary aim was to identify the limited efficacy of textured insoles on gross motor assessment balance domains and endurance in children with movement difficulties. Methods: An assessor‐blinded, randomised feasibility study. We advertised for children between the ages of 5–12 years, with an existing diagnosis or developmental coordination disorder or gross motor skill levels assessed as 15th percentile or below on a norm‐referenced, reliable and validated scale across two cities within Australia. We randomly allocated children to shoes only or shoes and textured insoles. We collected data across six feasibility domains; demand (recruitment), acceptability (via interview) implementation (adherence), practicality (via interview and adverse events), adaptation (via interview) and limited efficacy testing (6‐min walk test and balance domain of Movement ABC‐2 at baseline and 4 weeks). Results: There were 15 children randomised into two groups (eight received shoes alone, seven received shoes and textured insoles). We experienced moderate demand, with 46 potential participants. The insoles were acceptable, however, some parents reported footwear fixture issues requiring modification. The 6‐min walk test was described as problematic for children, despite all but one child completing. Social factors impacted adherence and footwear wear time in both groups. Families reported appointment locations and parking impacting practicality. Underpowered, non‐significant small to moderate effect sizes were observed for different outcome measures. Improvement in balance measures favoured the shoe and insole group, while gait velocity increase favoured the shoe only group. Conclusion: Our research indicates that this trial design is feasible with modifications such as recruiting with a larger multi‐disciplinary organisation, providing velcro shoe fixtures and using a shorter timed walk test. Furthermore, progressing to a larger well‐powered randomised control trial is justified considering our preliminary, albeit underpowered, efficacy findings. Trial Registration: This trial was retrospectively registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registration: ACTRN12624000160538. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pressure-relieving footwear helps prevent foot ulcers in people with diabetes. The footwear design contributes to this effect and includes the insole top cover. We aimed to assess the offloading effect of materials commonly used as insole top cover. We measured 20 participants with diabetes and peripheral neuropathy for in-shoe peak pressures while walking in their prescribed footwear with the insole covered with eight different materials, tested in randomized order. Top covers were a 3 mm or 6 mm thick open or closed-cell foam or a 6 mm thick combination of open- and closed-cell foams. We re-assessed pressures after one month of using the top cover. Peak pressures were assessed per anatomical foot region and a region of interest (i.e., previous ulceration or high barefoot pressure). Walking comfort was assessed using a 10-point Likert scale. Mean peak pressure at the region of interest varied between 167 (SD:56) and 186 (SD:65) kPa across top covers (p < 0.001) and was significantly higher for the 3 mm thick PPT than for four of the seven 6 mm thick top covers. Across 6 mm thick top covers, only two showed a significant peak pressure difference between them. Over time, peak pressures changed non-significantly from −2.7 to +47.8 kPa across top cover conditions. Comfort ratings were 8.0 to 8.4 across top covers (p = 0.863). The 6 mm thick foams provided more pressure relief than the 3 mm thick foam during walking in high-risk people with diabetes. Between the 6 mm thick foams and over time, only small differences exist. The choice of which 6 mm thick insole top cover to use may be determined more by availability, durability, ease of use, costs, or hygienic properties than by superiority in pressure-relief capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimalistic footwear provides adequate toe space, tripod function, improving foot function, muscle activation and stability during walking similarly to barefoot walking. Due to the increasing popularity of this specific footwear, there is a lack of research focusing on general users of minimalistic footwear. Does annual walking in minimalistic footwear affect gait biomechanics? Cross-sectional study involving twenty participants in a minimalistic footwear group with both experience (MFE) and no experience (NMFE). Participants walked in three different conditions (barefoot, minimalistic, and neutral footwear) in the laboratory at normal human walking speed. A significant main effect of groups regardless of footwear conditions show significantly greater values during walking in minimalistic footwear and barefoot in the stride length (p=0.035, p=0.003, respectively), and stride width (p=0.047, p=0.028, respectively) in the NMFE group compared to MFE group. The significant differences in the main effects of footwear regardless of experience were found in stance time (p<0.001), steps per minute (p<0.001), stride length (<0.001), foot adduction in TO (p<0.001), foot eversion angle in IC and TO (p<0.001, p<0.001, respectively), foot progression angle (p<0.001), ankle dorsiflexion angle in IC and TO (p<0.001, p<0.001, respectively), in ankle eversion angle in IC and TO (p<0.001, p<0.001, respectively), knee flexion angle in IC and TO (p<0.001; p<0.001, respectively), and in knee flexion range of motion (p<0.001). Based on our findings, barefoot walking should be used primarily during daily activities if the environment is conducive. Only one year of experience with minimalistic footwear seems insufficient and an intervention should be incorporated to change the gait pattern when transitioning to full minimalistic footwear walking. • Barefoot walking should be used primarily during daily activities when the environment is suitable. • One year of experience with minimalistic footwear seems insufficient to change the gait pattern. • An intervention should be incorporated to full minimalistic footwear walking transitioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allergic contact dermatitis of the feet is a significant problem that affects the quality of life and requires attention from the medical community due to the number of studied and still unidentified allergens. The purpose of this review article is to summarize the available scientific data regarding the most common allergens that cause ACD of the feet. Nickel sulphate, neomycin sulphate, thiuram mix and colophony occupy a significant place in the prevalence of allergies. The prevalence of sensitization to rubber and leather products can vary depending on the ethno-demographic characteristics of the country, as well as the specifics of a person's professional activity, such as the use of protective waterproof shoes, increased humidity of the microclimate, and atopy in anamnesis. Patch testing has been shown to be an important method for identifying allergens, however, not all footwear components are tested during patch testing with standard allergen series, requiring the use of patches made from patient shoe samples. Expanding the scope of patch testing to include other possible allergens is important for the accurate diagnosis of ACD of the feet and a more detailed study of those allergens that were previously considered rare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Running footwear is continuously being modified and improved; however, running-related overuse injury rates remain high. Nevertheless, novel manufacturing processes enable the production of individualized running shoes that can fit the individual needs of runners, with the potential to reduce injury risk. For this reason, it is essential to investigate functional groups of runners, a collective of runners who respond similarly to a footwear intervention. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop a framework to identify functional groups based on their individual footwear response regarding injury-specific running-related risk factors for Achilles tendinopathy, Tibial stress fractures, Medial tibial stress syndrome, and Patellofemoral pain syndrome. In this work, we quantified the footwear response patterns of 73 female and male participants when running in three different footwear conditions using unsupervised learning (k -means clustering). For each functional group, we identified the footwear conditions minimizing the injury-specific risk factors. We described differences in the functional groups regarding their running style, anthropometric, footwear perception, and demographics. The results implied that m ost functional groups showed a tendency for a single footwear condition to reduce most biomechanical risk factors for a specific overuse injury. Functional groups often differed in their hip and pelvis kinematics as well as their subjective rating of the footwear conditions. The footwear intervention only partially affected biomechanical risk factors attributed to more proximal joints. Due to its adaptive nature, the framework could be applied to other footwear interventions or performance-related biomechanical variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research developed shoe soles using a biodegradable and renewable composite made of King Oyster mushroom mycelium. An exploratory approach was used to develop biodegradable shoe prototypes using the mushroom mycelium composite as the midsoles. An online survey was conducted to evaluate the consumer acceptance of the shoe prototypes and a wear test with undergraduate college students was conducted to evaluate the consumer acceptance, wearability, and comfort of the shoe prototype. The survey results indicated that consumers liked the new sustainable footwear and were likely to purchase it. Indian consumers liked the new shoes more and would be more willing to purchase the new shoes than the U.S. consumers. The young age group would be more willing to buy this sustainable shoe prototype than the old age group. The consumers who were frequent consumers of sustainable products, willing to pay more for an environmentally friendly product, and cared about the environment were more likely to purchase this sustainable shoe prototype. The wear test with a small sample of four college students had split opinions on the comfort and wearability of the shoes. Still, all of them liked the concept of shoe materials and biodegradable shoes made from renewable materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research developed shoe soles using a biodegradable and renewable composite made of King Oyster mushroom mycelium. An exploratory approach was used to develop biodegradable shoe prototypes using the mushroom mycelium composite as the midsoles. An online survey was conducted to evaluate the consumer acceptance of the shoe prototypes and a wear test with undergraduate college students was conducted to evaluate the consumer acceptance, wearability, and comfort of the shoe prototype. The survey results indicated that consumers liked the new sustainable footwear and were likely to purchase it. Indian consumers liked the new shoes more and would be more willing to purchase the new shoes than the U.S. consumers. The young age group would be more willing to buy this sustainable shoe prototype than the old age group. The consumers who were frequent consumers of sustainable products, willing to pay more for an environmentally friendly product, and cared about the environment were more likely to purchase this sustainable shoe prototype. The wear test with a small sample of four college students had split opinions on the comfort and wearability of the shoes. Still, all of them liked the concept of shoe materials and biodegradable shoes made from renewable materials.

Baseball and softball are played primarily on the infield skin. An ideal infield surface allows players' cleats to penetrate the soil and provide adequate traction yet impart minimal surface disruption. This ideal state has been termed the "cleat-in/cleat-out effect." As an infield soil dries, it transitions from the cleat-in/cleat-out state to a brittle condition in which the soil readily fractures into chips or clods.. Surface irregularities formed in the brittle condition may deflect batted balls and induce a fielding error or injury. The objective of this research was to develop a laboratory test for identifying the critical water content θ critical corresponding to the cleat-in/cleat-out behavioral threshold for any soil. A pneumatically driven apparatus was fabricated to emulate an athlete's footstrike by applying normal, shearing, and torsional stresses using baseball cleats removed from a commercially available shoe. The test produced several cleat indentations on a cylindrical soil sample. A 3D scanning technique quantified surface disruption via Dirichlet Normal Energy. Volumetric water content was measured using a combination of 3D scanning and gravimetric methods. A given soil sample was tested at several water contents. θ critical was determined by plotting Dirichlet Normal Energy against θ and fitting a curve to solve for the local minimum. The method successfully detected differences in θ critical between infield soils containing identical clay mineralogy but differing sand content (60% and 75%; p < 0.001). Reasonable correspondence was achieved across test replicates, with a coefficient of variation of 8.5%. It is envisaged that the method will find utility in future investigations of infield mix design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study seeks to explore the correlation between cortical activation and the Infinity Walk pattern, examining how the influence of foot overpronation and footwear may impact motor control. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), a portable and user-friendly neuroimaging technique, was used to measure hemodynamical changes in six individuals with non-critical pronation degrees. Participants perform the Infinity Walk under various footwear conditions while wearing an fNIRS portable imaging device. Results indicate a consistent hemodynamic pattern in both hemispheres during the Infinity Walk, with no significant differences observed across subjects and footwear conditions in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), pre-motor area, the supplementary motor cortex (PMA & SMC), the primary motor cortex (PMC), and Wernicke’s area (WA). The impact of pronation and footwear on motor control remains inconclusive due to inconsistent hemodynamic patterns. Notably, the activation patterns in Broca’s area (BA) and the temporal gyrus (TG) differ significantly from other brain regions. The balanced hemodynamic responses in the bilateral hemispheres may be attributed to the Infinity Walk’s inherent walking pattern. These findings indicate a need for further investigation into the Infinity Walk to examine the similarities and distinctions in activation patterns within specific brain regions. Additionally, the impact of pronation necessitates more substantial experimental research to establish a correlation between pronation and cortical hemodynamics.

Aims: Adherence to therapeutic footwear is vital for effective diabetic foot ulcer prevention and treatment. Understanding the key adherence factors and potential barriers is important for footwear design and implementation. Our team is creating intelligent offloading footwear to prevent lower extremity amputations in people living with diabetes (PLwD). This exploratory study assessed the ability of the established Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model to predict behavioral intention to use or recommend this intelligent offloading footwear by PLwD, caregivers of PLwD, or medical professionals treating PLwD. Methods: Online and paper questionnaires were implemented to assess the impact of the UTAUT model factors (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions) and psychosocial factors (attitude, anxiety, self-efficacy) on the overall behavioral intention to use the footwear. Furthermore, factors influencing potential acceptance and rejection of the footwear were explored. Results: Patients (4.0/5) and medical professionals (4.1/5) showed a behavioral intention to "agree" to use or recommend the footwear when it becomes available. Structural equation modeling showed that the UTAUT constructed model may not be the best indicator for behavioral intention here based on a lack of statistical significance. However, the logistic regression modeling showed that the social influence for PLwD (p=0.004) and the attitude toward the footwear for medical professionals (p=0.001) may be the most important when designing and implementing the footwear, though several other factors (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, facilitating conditions, and self-efficacy) were also important for one or both of these populations. Additionally, cost and clinician support were shown to be important factors influencing potential acceptance of the footwear. Conclusions: The study found promising intention to use the intelligent footwear in the future. This highlights the need to continue future development and implementation of the footwear to incorporate these results, thus improving the likelihood of high adherence of the footwear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a common condition that causes heel pain. While various conservative treatment modalities for PF exist, no previous studies have investigated the effectiveness of shoe rotation (ShR) in patients with PF pain. This study aimed to compare the therapeutic effectiveness of ShR with that of two conventional treatments for PF—namely, foot orthosis (FO) and physical therapy (PT). Methods: Charts of 42 patients with heel pain were retrospectively reviewed. Participants were allocated to one of three treatment groups: the ShR group, the customized FO group, and the PT group. Pain and functional outcomes were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Digital Pain Scale (DPS), Foot Function Index (FFI), Foot Pain and Function Scale (FPFS), and American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS-AHS) at baseline and at 4 and 12 weeks after the intervention. Results: The ShR, FO, and PT groups all showed improvements, with statistically significant decreases in VAS, DPS, and FFI scores and significant increases in FPFS and AOFAS-AHS scores over time (p < 0.05). All three interventions resulted in significant improvements from baseline to 4 weeks and further to 12 weeks (p < 0.05). The ShR group exhibited a slightly larger effect on all measurements than the other groups. Conclusions: ShR, FO, and PT contributed to pain reduction and functional improvement, and alternating the shoes alleviated PF pain. These results suggest a new approach to managing PF and serve as a basis for providing convenient treatment for patients with PF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Nike Vaporfly 4% (VP4) shoe is popular due to its unique design and reported performance benefits. However, the underlying mechanisms responsible for the improvements remain unclear. One proposed mechanism is the teeter-totter effect. This study aimed to 1) experimentally test the teeter-totter theory by estimating the teeter-totter moment (MTT) in the VP4 compared to a flat shoe (CONTROL) and 2) quantify the change in the anterior-posterior position of the centre of pressure (Δxa-p) in the VP4 compared to the CONTROL. Plantar pressures and high-speed video were recorded from 15 runners in two shoe conditions. The VP4 generated a larger propulsion moment, MP, ($\mathop \int \nolimits{{\rm{M}}_{\rm{P}}}{\rm{dt}} $ ∫ M P dt = 90.46 ± 38.87 Nms; p < 0.001, d = 1.95), suggesting the presence of an MTT in the VP4 ($\mathop \int \nolimits{{\rm{M}}_{{\rm{TT}}}}{\rm{dt}}$ ∫ M TT dt = 57.16 ± 24.35 Nms) when compared to the CONTROL ($\mathop \int \nolimits{{\rm{M}}_{\rm{P}}}{\rm{dt}}$ ∫ M P dt = 33.30 ± 14.52 Nms). Δxa-p was greater in the VP4 (Δxa-p = 9.48 ± 6.08 mm; p < 0.001, d = 2.07) compared to the CONTROL (Δxa-p = 0.54 ± 0.67 mm). This study provides a methodological proof-of-concept for the teeter-totter theory. The findings highlight the possibility of a teeter-totter effect resulting in greater heel propulsion while running in an AFT shoe construction, assuming a constant muscle moment and pivot point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Footwear, orthoses, and insoles have been shown to influence balance in older adults; however, it remains unclear which features, singular or in combination, are considered optimal. The aim of this scoping review was to identify and synthesise the current evidence regarding how footwear, orthoses, and insoles influence balance in older adults. Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, and AMED) were searched from inception to October 2023. Key terms such as "shoe*," "orthoses," "postural balance" and "older people" were employed in the search strategy. Studies meeting the following criteria were included: (i) participants had a minimum age ≥60 years, and were free of any neurological, musculoskeletal, and cardiovascular diseases; (ii) an active intervention consisting of footwear, foot orthoses, or insoles was evaluated; and (iii) at least one objective outcome measure of balance was reported. Summary: A total of 56 studies from 17 different countries were included. Three study designs were utilised (cross-sectional study, n = 44; randomised parallel group, n = 6; cohort study n = 6). The duration of studies varied considerably, with 41 studies evaluating immediate effects, 14 evaluating effects from 3 days to 12 weeks, and 1 study having a duration of 6 months. Seventeen different interventions were evaluated, including/consisting of textured insoles (n = 12), heel elevation (n = 8), non-specific standardised footwear and changes in sole thickness or hardness (n = 7 each), sole geometry or rocker soles, contoured or custom insoles and high collar height (n = 6 each), insole thickness or hardness and vibrating insoles (n = 5 each), outsole tread (n = 4), minimalist footwear and slippers (n = 3 each), balance-enhancing shoes, footwear fit, socks, and ankle-foot orthoses (n = 2 each), and eversion insoles, heel cups, and unstable footwear (n = 1 each). Twenty-three different outcomes were assessed, and postural sway was the most common (n = 20), followed by temporo-spatial gait parameters (n = 17). There was uncertainty regarding intervention effectiveness. Overall, features such as secure fixation, a textured insole, a medium-to-hard density midsole and a higher ankle collar, in isolation, were able to positively impact balance. Conversely, footwear with an elevated heel height and the use of socks and slippers impaired balance. Key Messages: There is a substantial body of literature exploring the effects of footwear, orthoses, and insoles on balance in older adults. However, considerable uncertainty exists regarding the efficacy of these interventions due to variability in methodological approaches. Further high-quality research is necessary to determine whether a singular intervention or a combination of interventions is most effective for enhancing balance in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthcare practitioners will encounter children who use orthoses to improve or maintain body structures and functions, activities and participation. Orthotic interventions involve complex science and the benefits need to outweigh the burden. Interdisciplinary collaborative family centred goal setting, from birth to adulthood is essential. An understanding of why and when orthoses are helpful allows a deeper discussion with families and can improve adherence. This article presents a systematic 'Inside-Out Approach' incorporating the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health and the International Organization for Standardization objectives for orthotic interventions. Pictorial and Table Tools identify potential goals for bones and joints, muscles, motor control of standing and walking, activities and participation, and prevention of pain which is an indicator of quality of life. Achieving short and long term goals requires early intervention. The design, alignments and dosage, the duration and frequency the child needs to wear the orthosis, required to achieve goals will be determined by an understanding of natural history and prognosis, the agreed goals and the child's schedule of activities. A Dosage Tool is presented. Recent improved understanding of the contribution of the footwear, individualized and optimized joint and segment alignments and segment proportion is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: A concern expressed by the clinical community is that the constraint of motion provided by an ankle foot orthosis (AFO) may lead the user to become dependent on its stiffness, leading to learned non-use. To examine this, we hypothesized that using an experimental AFO-footwear combination (exAFO-FC) that constrains ankle motion during walking would result in reduced soleus and tibialis anterior EMG compared to free (exAFOFC) and control (no AFO, footwear only) conditions. Method: A total of 14 healthy subjects walked at their preferred speed (1.34 ± 0.09 m·s-1) for 15min, in three conditions, namely, control, free, and stop. Results: During the stance phase of walking in the stop condition, ipsilateral soleus integrated EMG (iEMG) declined linearly, culminating in a 32.1% reduction compared to the control condition in the final 5 min interval of the protocol. In contrast, ipsilateral tibialis anterior iEMG declined in a variable fashion culminating in an 11.2% reduction compared to control in the final 5 min interval. During the swing phase, the tibialis anterior iEMG increased by 6.6% compared to the control condition during the final 5 min interval. The contralateral soleus and tibialis anterior exhibited increased iEMG in the stop condition. Discussion: An AFO-FC functions as a biomechanical motion control device that influences the neural control system and alters the output of muscles experiencing constraints of motion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Foot microbial infections are a common concern, particularly among individuals with diabetes, athletes, and those with compromised immune systems. Traditional methods for managing these infections include topical treatments and oral antibiotics. Diabetes mellitus patients, sportsmen and women, postoperative foot/ankle patients, and people who wear shoes for longer periods require extra attention due to the increased risk of microbial infection. The microenvironment of footwear, including its humidity, temperature, and aeration, supports the growth of pathogenic or opportunistic microorganisms. However, these approaches can not provide continuous protection against emerging infectious diseases and can not prevent antibiotic-resistant infections. Antimicrobial-incorporated shoe insoles present a novel and promising solution for preventing and managing foot microbial infections through their sustained release, which ensures long-term antimicrobial activity and reduces the risk of infection recurrence. These insoles are embedded with antimicrobial agents, like silver nanoparticles, copper ions, or organic antimicrobial compounds that provide continuous protection against a broad spectrum of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi and viruses). The occurrence of common foot infections like athlete's foot, fungal nail infections, and bacterial infections associated with diabetic foot ulcers can also be mitigated. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted to examine the possibility and efficacy of the application of antibacterial quaternary ammonium silane compound-treated shoe insole materials in the mitigation of foot microbial infections. EN ISO 20645:2004, AATCC 147-2019, ISO 16187:2013, and fluorescence staining (CTC/DAPI) test methods were used in this study to analyze the antibacterial efficacy of the tested insole foam against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. Results: Antimic®[(3-(trimethoxysilyl)-propyl, cocodimethylammonium chloride] compound-incorporated shoe insoles resulted in total bacteria reduction (92-96%) after 24-hour contact time, without triggering a viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state in the tested bacteria. Conclusion: Antimic® compound-incorporated shoe insoles represent a significant advancement in the prevention and management of foot microbial infections, providing a continuous, effective, and convenient method for maintaining good foot health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Super-shoes" are designed to improve endurance running performance by reducing the metabolic demands of running. Although the research on "super-shoes" is still developing and has mostly been studied in male runners, it is not clear how possible mediating factors, such as foot strike pattern, influence the metabolic cost and joint mechanics in competitive female runners. Purpose: The objective of this study is to assess the influence of "super-shoes" on metabolic cost and joint mechanics in competitive female runners and to understand how foot strike patter may influence the footwear effects. Methods: Eighteen competitive female runners ran four 5-min bouts on a force instrumented treadmill at 12.9 km⋅h-1 in 1) Nike Vaporfly Next% 2™(SUPER) and 2) Nike Pegasus 38™(CON) in a randomized and mirrored order. Results: Metabolic power was improved by 4.2% (P < 0.001; d = 0.43) and metatarsophalangeal (MTP) negative work (P < 0.001; d = 1.22), ankle negative work (P = 0.001; d = 0.67), and ankle positive work (P < 0.001; d = 0.97) were all smaller when running in SUPER compared with CON. There was no correlation between foot strike pattern and the between-shoe (CON to SUPER) percentage change for metabolic power (r = 0.093, P = 0.715). Conclusions: Metabolic power improved by 4.2% in "super-shoes" (but only by ~3.2% if controlling for shoe mass differences) in this cohort of competitive female runners, which is a smaller improvement than previously observed in men. The reduced mechanical demand at the MTP and ankle in "super-shoes" are consistent with previous literature and may explain or contribute to the metabolic improvements observed in "super-shoes"; however, foot strike pattern was not a moderating factor for the metabolic improvements of "super-shoes." Future studies should directly compare the metabolic response among different types of "super-shoes" between men and women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart shoes have ushered in a new era of personalised health monitoring and assistive technologies. Smart shoes leverage technologies such as Bluetooth for data collection and wireless transmission, and incorporate features such as GPS tracking, obstacle detection, and fitness tracking. As the 2010s unfolded, the smart shoe landscape diversified and advanced rapidly, driven by sensor technology enhancements and smartphones' ubiquity. Shoes have begun incorporating accelerometers, gyroscopes, and pressure sensors, significantly improving the accuracy of data collection and enabling functionalities such as gait analysis. The healthcare sector has recognised the potential of smart shoes, leading to innovations such as shoes designed to monitor diabetic foot ulcers, track rehabilitation progress, and detect falls among older people, thus expanding their application beyond fitness into medical monitoring. This article provides an overview of the current state of smart shoe technology, highlighting the integration of advanced sensors for health monitoring, energy harvesting, assistive features for the visually impaired, and deep learning for data analysis. This study discusses the potential of smart footwear in medical applications, particularly for patients with diabetes, and the ongoing research in this field. Current footwear challenges are also discussed, including complex construction, poor fit, comfort, and high cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facing the drawback of the traditional product design approach and educational courses, this study aimed to explore an innovative approach through which synthesised knowledge and skills of product design in Function (F), Aesthetics (A) and Technology (T) can be integrated into the instruction of art and design subjects in higher education. With shoe modelling as a study case, experiments with the involvement of 19 participants were conducted to test a traditional shoe design method and a FAT-integrated shoe design method in terms of efficiency, flexibility and accuracy. The results demonstrated that the FAT-integrated shoe design method was more advantages than the traditional method. The study can conclude that the FAT-integrated shoe design method can not only propel the efficiency of product design but also the quality. It can enhance the quality of higher education in art and design subjects and promote the new technology application in traditional labour-intensive industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 3D modelling, a surface mesh is a collection of vertices, edges, and faces that define the shape of a 3D object. The surface mesh is typically used to represent the outer surface of an object, as opposed to the internal structure. A surface mesh is usually defined as a polygon mesh, which is a collection of polygons (triangles or quadrilaterals are the most common) that are connected at their vertices. The vertices of the mesh define the shape of the object, and the edges and faces provide the topological information that describes how the vertices are connected. Surface meshes are often used in 3D modelling software to create 3D objects for animation, video games, and other purposes. Although triangular meshes are the most widely used in various fields, they have a series of disadvantages that quad meshes solve in most cases. This article presents a set of algorithms capable of generating quad meshes from any type of input triangular mesh, preserving the geometric characteristics of the initial model. This process is known as 'remeshing'. The results obtained by these algorithms on a large number of models related to the footwear industry have been compared, as well as analysing the advantages and disadvantages of each one of them applied to geometric models commonly used in footwear industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the role of content marketing and product variety on purchase decisions through customer engagement. The study was executed on the customers of local Indonesian footwear, namely Noosa Official, the MSME based in Bandung City. A total of 360 respondents were selected with the criteria of being 15 to 60 years old, living in Indonesia, and as followers of the Noosa Official Instagram for at least three months. The questionnaire contains 36 questions. The survey was self-administered and conducted online, and then the data obtained was analyzed using descriptive and SEM-PLS analysis. This study concluded that content marketing significantly and positively affects customer engagement and decisions. The indirect effect of content marketing on customer decisions mediated by customer engagement is also significant. Product variety only significantly affects customer decisions positively. Product variety has a positive but insignificant effect on customer engagement. Customer engagement is also negligible in mediating the influence of product variety on customer decisions. Lastly, customer engagement is also known to significantly influence customer decisions positively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The paper aims to reveal the relationship among energy efficiency, thermal comfort and thermal regulation of electrically heated footwear and to investigate influencing factors on the energy efficiency and thermal comfort. Design/methodology/approach: A finite volume model was proposed to simulate the two-dimensional heat transfer in electrically heated footwear (EHF) under an extremely cold condition. The model domain consists of three-layer footwear materials, a heating pad, a sock material, an air gap and skin tissues. Model predictions were verified by experimental data from cold-contact exposure. Then the influencing factors on the energy efficiency and thermal comfort were investigated through parametric analysis. Findings: The paper demonstrated that the skin temperature control (STC) mode provided superior thermal comfort compared to the heating pad temperature control (HPTC) mode. However, the energy efficiency for the HPTC mode with a heating temperature of 38 °C was 18% higher than the STC mode. The energy efficiency of EHF while reaching the state of thermal comfort was strongly determined by the arrangement and connection of heating elements, heating temperature, thickness and thermal conductivity of footwear materials. Originality/value: The findings obtained in this paper can be used to engineer the EHF that provides optimal thermal comfort and energy efficiency in cold environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slipping is a major cause of occupational accidents and numerous footwear factors and features, as well as the testing conditions, affects a shoe's ability to resist slipping. The aim of this study was to compare slip resistance certification data from five certified shoes with measurements performed on a mechanical test setup in accordance with the ISO 20347:2012 standard, as well as determining their performance in a biofidelic setup that resembles the biomechanics of slipping. Certification data attributed Shoe #3 with the highest slip resistance, and our mechanical assessment of the same footwear models showed that Shoe #2 had the higher slip resistance and was superior under more biofidelic testing parameters. Based on our mechanical evaluations, specific engineering considerations such as an increase in both the heel beveling and the midsole thickness can advantageously enhance slip resistance. Further investigation in a clinical setting will provide insights on how these engineered footwear adjustments could enhance friction and ultimately enhance occupational safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimalist walking shoes have been shown to improve foot muscle size and strength in active adults, but not in our previous study involving children, which could relate to the more structured footwear used in our study. Hence, this study examined the effects of true minimalists on intrinsic foot muscle size and strength, foot arch integrity, and physical function among primary school children. After a baseline assessment, 30 primary school students aged between 9 and 12 were given a pair of minimalist shoes (minimalist index = 92%) as their regular school shoes for two school terms, followed by a re-assessment. Seventeen of the 30 participants in the minimalist group completed the study. Compared to the control group, the minimalist group showed significantly increased cross-sectional area of abductor hallucis (p = 0.047, Cohen's d = 0.57) and flexor digitorum brevis (p = 0.037, Cohen's d = 0.80), increased strength of the hallux (p = 0.015, Cohen's d = 0.76) and lesser toes (p = 0.014, Cohen's d = 0.66), greater arch height (p = 0.020, Cohen's d = 0.52) and standing long jump distance (p = 0.001, Cohen's d = 9.79). The control group exhibited improved standing long jump performance only (p = 0.020, Cohen's d = 10.70). Minimalist shoes worn daily to school promote intrinsic foot muscle size and strength, and improve foot arch integrity among primary school students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An optoelectronic sensor was developed to measure the in-plane displacement between two parallel surfaces. This sensor used a photodetector, which was placed on one of the parallel surfaces, to measure the intensity of the red (R), green (G), blue (B), and white/clear (C) light spectra of a broad-spectrum light that was reflected off a color grid on the opposing surface. The in-plane displacement between these two surfaces caused a change in the reflected RGB and C light intensity, allowing the prediction of the displacement direction and magnitude by using a polynomial regression prediction algorithm to convert the RGB and C light intensity to in-plane displacement. Results from benchtop experiments showed that the sensor can achieve accurate displacement predictions with a coefficient of determination R2 > 0.97, a root mean squared error (RMSE) < 0.3 mm, and a mean absolute error (MAE) < 0.36 mm. By measuring the in-plane displacement between two surfaces, this sensor can be applied to measure the shear of a flexible layer, such as a shoe's insole or the lining of a limb prosthesis. This sensor would allow slippage detection in wearable devices such as orthotics, prostheses, and footwear to quantify the overfitting or underfitting of these devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The habitual motion path theory states that exhibiting kinematic differences between running and habitual movement tasks may increase the risk of running-related injury. Staying near one's habitual motion path when running has been shown to reduce compression of the knee joint cartilage, a proxy for decreased soft tissue loading. Previous efforts to quantify one's habitual motion path and deviation when running have utilised just one habitual movement and one time point during the stance phase of running. The methodology advancement described in this manuscript focused on advancing habitual motion path theory research by (1) increasing the number of movements for quantifying an individual's habitual motion path; and (2) utilising the entire stance phase when running to quantify deviations as opposed to one time point. We liken the advancements in the method described in this manuscript as with the first method we were using a ruler to assess one's habitual motion path and deviations, and now we are using calipers; providing a more accurate understanding of an individual's unique habitual movement and deviation when running. We also discuss future potential research avenues related to understanding running biomechanics and footwear effects that this tool will allow us to explore. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Running race courses typically feature numerous turns, an element of a race typically neglected. If a thick midsole were to decrease frontal plane ankle stability, it could potentially lead to a misalignment of lower limb joints, thereby affecting turn running and overall race performance. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the influence of midsole thickness on turn running performance and peak frontal plane ankle angle. Thirteen recreational athletes participated in this study, which examined the effects of two footwear conditions: one with a 35-mm thick midsole and the other with a 50-mm thick midsole. Participants performed ten running trials around each of three turns of radii 3, 6 and 9 m. No significant differences were found between footwear conditions with respect to time to completion (p = 0.028), centre of mass velocity (p = 0.179) or frontal plane ankle angle (p = 0.935) across any of the three turns. These findings would suggest footwear manufactures need not consider the impact of midsole thickness on turn running performance when designing advanced footwear technology (AFT) and consumers need not avoid a substantial stack height when purchasing running shoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Footwear has the potential to reduce soft‐tissue vibrations (STV) but responses are highly subject‐specific. Recent evidence shows that compressive garments minimizing STV have a beneficial effect on neuromuscular (NM) fatigue. The aim was to determine whether an individualized midsole hardness can minimize STV and NM fatigue during a half marathon. Twenty experienced runners were recruited for three visits: a familiarization session including the identification of midsole minimizing and maximizing STV amplitude (MIN and MAX, respectively), and two half marathon sessions at 95% of speed at the second ventilatory threshold. STV of the gastrocnemius medialis (GM) muscle, running kinetics, foot strike pattern, rating perceived exhaustion (RPE), and midsole liking were recorded every 3 km. NM fatigue was assessed on plantar flexors (PF) before (PRE) and after (POST) the half marathon. At POST, PF central and peripheral alterations and changes in contact time, step frequency, STV median frequency, and impact force frequency as well as foot strike pattern were found in both MIN and MAX. No significant differences in damping, STV main frequency, flight time, duty factor, and loading rate were observed between conditions whatever the time period. During the half marathon, STV amplitude of GM significantly increased over time for the MAX condition (+13.3%) only. Differences between MIN and MAX were identified for RPE and midsole liking. It could be hypothesized that, while significant, the effect of midsole hardness on STV is too low to substantially affect NM fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goal of this work is a quantitative description of Jacquelin Perry's rocker concept by locating the position of the heel rocker and the forefoot rocker within segments of the foot via functional calibration. Two functional calibration tasks with the foot in ground contact were performed by ten typical developed adults and foot marker motion was captured. After applying a least-square method for constructing foot segments, their motion relative to the floor was analyzed via a functional algorithm. Resulting reference positions – namely the heel rotation center and the metatarsal rotation axis – were calculated. Further, the repeatability of the method and variability of outcome within the cohort was tested. The heel rotation center is located substantially posterior (25 mm) and slightly more inferior (5 mm). to the midpoint of the two markers placed medially and laterally on the calcaneus. Repeated measures reveal a variation of this location around 5 mm. The forefoot center is slightly more medial to the "toe marker" (DMT2) and substantially more inferior (19 mm). The metatarsal rotation axis is slightly tilted in the frontal and transverse plane against the metatarsal line given between markers on MT1 and MT5 with small variation in repeated measures (1–2°). The determination of heel rotation center and the metatarsal rotation axis relative to foot segments can be determined with good repeatability and their location meet the intuitive expectation. Since they have a direct biomechanical meaning in the foot roll-over process in gait, they may be used for a more functionally oriented definition of foot segments potentially improving the calculation of foot kinematics and kinetics in future work. • Foot calibration tasks with ground contact were performed by 10 adults. • These were applied to calculate heel rotation center and metatarsal axis. • Results are repeatable with low variation within the cohort (5 mm;5°). • Heel rotation center and metatarsal axis may be used for foot modeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hallux valgus is a common condition where the subluxation of the first metatarsophalangeal joint and lateral deviation of the hallux at the interphalangeal joint creates difficulty with footwear fit. Footwear and foot orthoses are commonly prescribed nonsurgical treatments for hallux valgus. Do extra-width footwear and foot orthoses influence peak pressure at the medial aspect of the metatarsophalangeal and interphalangeal joints in women with hallux valgus? Community-dwelling women with symptomatic hallux valgus underwent gait testing when wearing their own shoes and when wearing extra-width footwear fitted with three-quarter length, arch-contouring prefabricated foot orthoses. Peak pressure (kPa) on the medial aspect of the metatarsophalangeal and medial interphalangeal joints and on the plantar surface of the foot (hallux, lesser toes, metatarsophalangeal joint 1, metatarsophalangeal joints 2–5, midfoot and heel) were measured using the novel pedar®-X system with the pedar® pad and pedar® insole, respectively (Novel, GmbH, Munich, Germany). Paired samples t -tests were used to calculate the differences between the two conditions, and the magnitude of observed differences was calculated using Cohen's d. We tested 28 participants (aged 44–80 years, mean 60.7, standard deviation 10.7). Compared to their own footwear, wearing the intervention footwear and orthoses was associated with a statistically significant decrease in pressure on the medial aspect of the metatarsophalangeal joint (58.3 ± 32.8 versus 42.6 ± 32.8, p =0.026, d =0.49), increased pressure under the midfoot (70.7 ± 25.7 versus 78.7 ± 23.6, p =0.029, d =0.33) and decreased pressure underneath the heel (137.3 ± 39.0 versus 121.3 ± 34.8, p =0.019, d =0.45). The intervention footwear and orthoses significantly decreased peak pressure on the medial aspect of the first metatarsophalangeal joint but had no significant effect on the interphalangeal joint. Further studies are required to determine whether these changes are associated with improvements in symptoms associated with hallux valgus. • We investigated peak medial and plantar pressure in women with hallux valgus. • The intervention decreased medial pressure at the first metarsophalangeal joint. • The intervention increased midfoot and decreased heel plantar pressure. • Women with hallux valgus may benefit from extra-width footwear and orthoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Little is known about factors that influence footwear selection by field hockey players. Methods: An online survey was used to collect data on participant demographics and physical characteristics, factors influencing footwear selection, perceptions regarding footwear design features on injury and performance, and experiences regarding usability. Nominal and ordinal data were described as absolute frequencies and relative frequencies. Free text responses were analysed using content analysis. Sex‐related differences in quantitative and qualitative data were explored. Results: A total of 401 hockey players completed the survey. Participants reported that fit, comfort, support, and cushioning were the most important factors when selecting hockey footwear. Most hockey players believed that stud design could influence athletic performance (65%) and injury risk (63%) but reported having no preference on outsole design or stud shape. Most participants (63%) used hockey‐specific footwear, but 46% of female hockey players did not, with 40% using trail running footwear instead. Qualitative analysis revealed that hockey players, particularly female participants, encounter difficulties finding properly fitting footwear. They desire more options for wide or narrow feet and face challenges in accessing suitable hockey shoes due to limited choices and availability. Conclusions: With over a third of field hockey players not using hockey‐specific footwear, future research should attempt to understand the reasons and assess the impact of different footwear features on comfort, performance, injury risk, and usability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Falls are a global concern affecting people of all ages; however, older adults are particularly vulnerable to age-related factors and foot-related issues. Footwear is critical for preventing falls, as it provides stability and protection against slips, trips, and falls (STFs). However, a significant gap exists in the systematic exploration of the safety aspects of footwear design for fall prevention in older adults. Methods: This comprehensive review applied a meticulous search strategy encompassing prominent databases, including Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, SCOPUS, MEDLINE, ResearchGate, and PubMed. This review synthesized and analyzed existing research to bridge knowledge gaps and provide insights into optimal footwear choices for older adults in terms of design features such as fit, fixation, heel height, collar height, slip resistance, and sole/ insole hardness. Results: The results underscore the importance of specific design features for preventing falls among older adults. A proper fit, secure fixation, appropriate heel and collar heights, slip resistance, and sole/insole hardness significantly contributed to fall prevention. These findings offer valuable guidance for optimizing footwear designs to enhance comfort, stability, and safety in the daily lives of older individuals. Conclusion: This comprehensive review fills a critical knowledge gap regarding the safety of footwear designs for fall prevention in older adults. The identified design features play a vital role in reducing the risk of falls and offer practical recommendations for the development of safer footwear. Ultimately, this study contributes to the existing knowledge base and supports efforts to prevent STFs in older adults through improved footwear design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Several footwear characteristics have been shown to affect balance and gait patterns and may therefore influence the risk of falling in older adults. However, attributing a link between footwear and falls is inherently difficult as it often relies on self-report which may be inaccurate. Methods: Archival video recordings of falls that occurred in two long-term residential aged care facilities were initially screened to determine whether the footwear worn at the time (barefoot, socks, slippers/sandals, or shoes) could be documented. These falls were then independently evaluated by three additional assessors and a meeting was held to obtain consensus in relation to whether the footwear could have potentially contributed to the fall, and what mechanism may have been responsible. Cross-tabulations were performed in relation to footwear type and fall characteristics (proposed mechanism and fall direction). Results: There were 300 falls experienced by 118 older adults aged 58 years–98 years (mean age 82.8 years, SD 7.6). Of these falls, footwear could be ascertained in 224 (75%). After the consensus meeting, the proportion of falls considered to be potentially related to footwear was 40 (18%). The likelihood of footwear contributing to the fall was highest when participants were wearing socks (14/19 falls; 74% of all footwear-related falls), followed by being barefoot (2/6 falls; 33%), wearing slippers/sandals (17/100 falls; 17%), and wearing shoes (7/99 falls, 7%). Conclusion: Footwear could be a potential contributor to a substantial number of falls in residential aged care. Wearing socks would appear to place an older person at risk of future falls and should therefore be avoided in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]