Biomechanical Functional Evaluation of Plantar Pressures After Foot and Ankle Surgeries

Biomechanical Functional Evaluation of Plantar Pressures After Foot and Ankle Surgeries

The described surgical techniques for the treatment of foot and ankle pathologies are numerous. In order to objectively assess the outcomes of these procedures, evaluation methods are typically used, primarily considering pain symptoms, residual functionality, the correction of any deformities achieved, and radiographic parameters. Conversely, assessments of plantar pressures, as a potential indicator of functional and biomechanical recovery, are still not widely utilized. Biomechanical functional assessments examine specific variables, including gait analysis, stabilometry, kinematics and kinetics of joint movements, and the activation and strength of particular muscle groups. These assessments can be conducted by specialized personnel using dedicated equipment such as a baropodometric platform and inertial sensors.

This study aims to, for the first time in the literature, present the results related to plantar pressures from different surgical treatments of the foot and ankle

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients who need to undergo surgical intervention
• Patients of both sexes aged between 18-75 years
• Patients who have provided their written informed consent to participate in the study
• Patients who have expressed their willingness to attend the Institute for the 6-month follow-up

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with severe postural instability
• Patients with cognitive deficits