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.