Foot Typing Method Using Multi-Dimensional Range Measurements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for classifying and treating feet are limited in scope and fail to accurately categorize all foot types, leading to inadequate diagnosis and treatment of pedal and postural conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method for classifying feet into specific functional foot types based on positional measurements in the Rearfoot and Forefoot, including Rearfoot Supinatory and Pronatory End Range of Motion, and Forefoot Supinatory and Pronatory End Range of Motion, allowing for customized pre-orthotic foot pads and orthotic inserts tailored to each foot type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If simple classification systems (three medical arch types) are used to classify feet, then the classification process is simple and easy to apply, but the classification accuracy and scope are limited and fail to properly classify all feet
Solution Approach 1:
The foot classification system is segmented into multiple independent measurement components: rearfoot supinatory end range, rearfoot pronatory end range, forefoot supinatory end range, and forefoot pronatory end range. Each component is measured and classified separately, then combined to create a comprehensive foot type classification. This segmentation allows for greater precision while maintaining systematic simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The classification system transitions from a single-dimension approach (three arch types) to a multi-dimensional approach by incorporating four distinct positional measurements of the foot. This dimensional expansion enables more nuanced classification of foot types while providing a structured framework that remains clinically practical.
2Reliability
If Root theory focusing on Subtalar joint control is used to diagnose and treat feet, then ground reactive support is improved, but the classification scope remains limited and cannot account for all foot types
Solution Approach 1:
The foot classification system is designed to be universal, accommodating all foot types through its multi-component measurement approach. By assessing rearfoot and forefoot positions in both supinatory and pronatory end ranges, the system can classify feet that Root theory would miss, while still providing reliable guidance for ground reactive support treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the diagnostic parameters from focusing solely on Subtalar joint control to including four positional measurements: rearfoot supinatory end range, rearfoot pronatory end range, forefoot supinatory end range, and forefoot pronatory end range. This parameter expansion maintains the reliability of Subtalar joint assessment while adding versatility to classify diverse foot types.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for classifying foot types by measuring the position of the Rearfoot Supinatory End Range of Motion, the Rearfoot Pronatory End Range of Motion, the Forefoot Supinatory End Range of Motion and the Forefoot Pronatory End Range of Motion, and classifying the foot based on the results of these measurements is disclosed. Once a human foot is classified and typed according to the disclosed method, a treatment plan can be customized for the specific foot type. The treatment can include the use of pre-orthotic pads and orthotic inserts which are customized according to a patient's specific foot type.