Comparison of Footprint Parameters Calculated From Static and Dynamic Footprints.

Summary:In attempting to establish relationships between "foot-type" and pathology many researchers have chosen to use parameters calculated from static footprints to define study groups. In this study the ability of such static information to reflect dynamic foot was investigated by comparing values for three parameters (Stahelis Arch Index, Chippaux-Smirak Index, Footprint Angle) calculated from static and dynamic prints. Three static and three dynamic footprints were obtained for 20 subjects. Reliability of the electronic data collection technique (P<0.001) was good for all three parameters, while linear parameters displayed greater between-print reliability (p<0.001) from those calculated from static prints, although good correlation's between the two states (p<0.001) indicate a general dynamic increase of 28%. Further, the Stahelis arch and Chippaux-Smirak indices, both claiming to measure the same condition, correlated very well with each other (p0.001). Continued investigation of footprint parameters appears warranted.