Characterization of the kinematics of the foot is performed by use of a foot model. The last 10 years, a plethora of foot models has been developed, and a consensus has risen that the foot can be modeled as a small number of segments [Foot models for clinical gait analysis (Baker et al, 2006)]. These segments are considered to be rigid, and expressing their angular relationship during gait gives the kinematics insight we look for.
Until now, multi segment models were mostly based on measurement of anatomical landmark motion using markers. Different approaches use 3 up to 8 segments to describe foot motion.
Example: Oxford Foot Model
The APPLODYNSCA project will define a similar multi segment foot model, based on the dynamic 3D surface foot scans. Because of this approach, using detailed 3D surface data of the unroll of the foot, such model allows to describe the foot kinematics more accurate and complete then possible by using markers or 2D analysis.
The model calculates kinematic parameters, representing foot shape motion during gait. This has applications in biomechanical analysis, sports medical consulting, treatment of foot problems and related orthotic design.
