Comparison of Plantar Pressures in Healthy Adults Using Two Designs of Removable Cast Walkers With and Without a Contralateral Raise: A Pilot Study

 

Abstract

Title: Comparison of Plantar Pressures in Healthy Adults Using Two Designs of Removable Cast Walkers With and Without a Contralateral Raise: A Pilot Study

Presenter:  Mohit Patel, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK

Background:

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) pose a significant global health burden due to their prevalence, associated morbidity, and treatment costs. Removable Cast Walkers (RCWs) are commonly used for offloading in DFU management but may create temporary leg length discrepancy (LLD), resulting in altered gait mechanics. The EVENUP® contralateral shoe lift may mitigate these effects.

Aims:

To compare the effects of two RCW designs on plantar pressures and gait parameters in healthy adults, with and without the use of the EVENUP® contralateral raise.

Methods:

A pilot study was conducted involving eight healthy adults. Participants walked under five conditions: (1) standard shoes,

(2) Aircast® XP with and without EVENUP®, and (3) Ossur Rebound™ with and without EVENUP®. Plantar pressures and gait parameters were measured using the PEDAR® in-shoe pressure system. Descriptive statistics were used to compare the data across conditions.

Results:

Both RCWs reduced peak plantar pressures compared to standard shoes. Use of the EVENUP® contralateral raise resulted in improved gait symmetry, reduced trunk compensation, and more balanced plantar pressure distribution. The Ossur Rebound™ demonstrated slightly more effective force distribution than the Aircast®.

Conclusions:

The EVENUP® shoe lift enhances the biomechanical efficacy of RCWs by mitigating gait deviations caused by LLD. These findings support the clinical use of contralateral raises in combination with RCWs to improve patient mobility, comfort, and adherence in diabetic foot ulcer management.

References

1.  Bus et al., 2016 – IWGDF Guidance on Footwear and Offloading

2.  Crews et al., 2012 – Impact of Strut Height on Offloading

3.  Withers et al., 2023 – Offloading Effects of RCWs

4.  Kipp et al., 2017 – EVENUP® Shoe-Lift Gait Study