What Is a Digital Pedobarograph?
The digital pedobarograph is a modern system used to visualize the anatomical structure of the foot and assess pressure distribution during standing and walking.
It consists of:
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A pressure-sensing platform, usually a mat embedded with thousands of sensors to detect plantar pressure
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A computer to store data
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A monitor for visual presentation of the analysis
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Specialized software, which is particularly important, as both the clinician and the patient interact visually with the data.
The system allows for both static and dynamic measurements.
Static Assessment
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Evaluates the distribution and projection of the body’s center of gravity on each leg separately
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Records average and maximum mechanical pressure on the lower limbs
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Measures support surface of each leg and the weight distribution on the frontal and sagittal planes
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Analyzes the balance of the patient in upright stance, whether on both feet or on one foot, assessing visual and vestibular inputs
Dynamic Assessment
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Analyzes different phases of gait, loading graphs, and peak pressures
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Calculates the pressure in N/cm² applied during walking at every square centimeter of the soles
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Measures contact time and duration of weight-bearing pressure
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Includes video analysis of gait and categorization of gait into defined phases
Indications – Use of the Pedobarograph
Data obtained from plantar pressure measurement can be used for assessment and treatment, including the design of custom orthotics, in patients with a wide range of neurological and musculoskeletal conditions affecting both children and adults.
Applications in Sports Medicine:
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Identification of biomechanical abnormalities
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Detection of limb length discrepancies, overuse syndromes, tendinopathies, metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, etc.
Applications in Pediatrics:
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Identification of gait disorders such as internal/external hip rotation, valgus flatfoot, foot pronation/supination, clubfoot, equinus foot, and neurological conditions
Applications in Metabolic Disorders:
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In conditions such as diabetes mellitus, with its complications (peripheral angiopathy and neuropathy), plantar pressure analysis is of utmost importance for ulcer prevention, reducing the risk of amputations
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