William Ledoux, Ph.D.
VA Center of Excellence for Limb Loss Prevention and Prosthetic Engineering
"Biomechanics of the Human Foot"
ABSTRACT
The human foot is a complex and often underappreciated mechanism, performing
functions as varied as attenuating shock, adapting to uneven surfaces and
serving as a rigid lever during propulsion. Our research into foot
biomechanics at the VA Puget Sound is guided by the principle that foot structure
affects foot function; that is, high arched feet work differently than flat
feet. As such, we have taken a basic science approach and used state-of-the-art
technology (computer tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, pressure measurement
and retroreflective motion analysis) to quantify structural and functional
parameters from different foot types. To further our understanding
of how the foot functions, we have developed a finite element model of the
foot and have begun to explore the relationship between foot shape and diabetic
neuropathic ulceration. Other projects include mechanical testing on
the plantar soft tissue and the ligaments of the foot. Finally, we
have developed several loading frames to systematically test cadaveric feet
in static positions. Our future work will entail quantifying the effect
of diabetes on the plantar soft tissue, the implementation of a foot based
coordinated system for motion analysis, and the development of a dynamic
cadaveric gait simulator.