Effect of different forefoot rocker radii on lower-limb joint biomechanics in healthy individuals

Previous studies showed that rocker shoes with a stiff forefoot profile significantly reduce peak plantar flexion moment at the ankle (PFM) and dorsiflexion (DF). Both parameters are related to Achilles tendon Plantar Fascia unloading. The shape of an outsole is described multiple design parameters. aim this research is, determine relation between different radii on DF PFM self-selected walking speed. 10 participants walked in standard three experimental pairs radii. Lower extremity kinematics kinetics were collected while instrumented treadmill preferred speed analysed Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM) (α = .05; post-hoc α .05/6). Peak value analyses significant decreases DF, PFM, power generation for conditions. No relevant differences found spatio-temporal total work joint. SPM decrease (% gait cycle) (40–69 %), (7–15 %; 41–68 69–81 (10–15 32–51 55–64 64–67 72–80 %) foot-to-horizontal angle (FHA) (0–4 40–62 92–100 increased shank-to-vertical (SVA) (44–84 results study suggest proximally placed apex during third compared control shoes. This effect mainly explained by change FHA. Smaller cause largest reductions so therefore, uniform standardisation radius essential.