Specific phase-related running biomechanics When evaluating runners, analyzing the client’s running biomechanics can be invaluable. According to Souza (2016), a frame rate of 120 Hz is needed for clean images, and most recent smartphones and tablets have this capacity. The runner should be filmed on a treadmill from both the side and the rear. Side view Foot strike pattern Foot strike can be categorized as forefoot strike, midfoot strike, or rearfoot strike (Figure 1). Typically, foot strike or
initial contact occurs at the rearfoot. According to Souza (2016), there is currently limited evidence to say that runners with a certain type of foot strike are prone to more frequent injuries. However, it is important information when evaluating a client because it may be contributing to their specific malady. Another tool for analyzing foot strike is to look at the wear pattern on the client’s running shoes. If the shoes have been used for a sufficient amount of time, there is typically more wear at the site of foot strike. For most runners, this will be the outer edge of the heel.
Figure 1: Footstrike Patterns
A. Forefoot Strike
B. Midfoot Strike
C. Rearfoot Strike
Tibia alignment at loading response Loading response is the point where shoe deformation begins as the foot comes in contact with the ground (Figure 3). The angle formed between tibia and the ground is called the tibia angle . The tibia is vertical when the tibia is perpendicular to the horizontal running surface. The tibia angle is considered extended when the knee is posterior to the ankle (overstriding) and flexed when the knee is anterior to the ankle. Souza (2016) states that a vertical or flexed alignment of the tibia allows for better dissipation of impact forces than an extended alignment of the tibia. By contrast, overstriding results in higher braking impulses (van Oeveren et al., 2021).
Foot inclination angle The inclination between the bottom of the shoe and ground at initial contacts is called the foot inclination angle (Figure 2). According to Souza (2016), there is evidence that an increased foot inclination angle leads to higher ground reaction forces, which may contribute to injury onset. Figure 2: Foot Inclination Angle
Figure 3: Tibia Alignment at Loading Response
A. Overstriding
B. Vertical
C. Flexed
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