Abstract

The contribution of the midfoot in landing mechanics is understudied. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to quantify midtarsal joint kinematics and kinetics during a barefoot single-leg landing task. A secondary aim of this study was to explore the relationship between static foot posture and dynamic midfoot function. In a cross-sectional study design, 48 females (age = 20.4 ± 1.8 yr, height = 1.6 ± 0.06 m, weight = 57.3 ± 5.5 kg, BMI = 21.6 ± 1.7 kg·m^-1) performed drop landings from a height of 0.4 m onto split force platforms. Subjects hung from wooden rings and landed on their dominant leg. Midtarsal joint kinematic and kinetic data were recorded using a motion capture software system in conjunction with a custom multisegment foot model marker set. Arch height index (AHI) for both seated and standing conditions was measured using the Arch Height Index Measurement System (AHIMS). Kinematic data revealed an average sagittal plane midtarsal range of motion (ROM) of 27 degrees through the landing phase. Kinetic data showed that between 7% and 22% of the total power absorption during the landing was performed by the midtarsal joint. Standing AHI was correlated negatively with sagittal plane midtarsal ROM (p = 0.0264) and positively with midtarsal work (p = 0.0212). Standing midfoot angle (MA) was correlated positively with sagittal plane midtarsal ROM (p = 0.0005) and negatively with midtarsal work (p = 0.0250). The midfoot contributes substantially to landing mechanics during a barefoot single-leg landing task. Static foot posture may be a valuable measurement in predicting midfoot kinematics and kinetics.

Degree

College and Department

Life Sciences; Exercise Sciences

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