Effect of Interpod and custom orthoses on plantar loading of the 1 metatarsophalangeal joint during gait

This study employed a blind randomised crossover design on 8 asymptomatic participants comparing Interpod prefabricated orthotics, custom orthotics and a shoe only control state using the Pedar in-shoe system during gait. No statistical difference was found between the Interpod and custom orthotics under the 1 MTPJ for maximum force, maximum mean pressure, or peak pressure. However it was found that the custom orthotic was able to significantly delay instant of peak pressure and significantly increased contact time, whereas the Interpods didn’t. No significant correlations were made between the foot posture and parameters which were significantly affected between experimental states. Further research is needed to determine if these changes are mirrored in larger symptomatic samples.