THE INFLUENCE OF HEEL HEIGHT ON ANKLE KINEMATICS DURING STANDING, WALKING, JOGGING AND SIDESTEPPING IN CHILDREN

Abstract

The aim of this study was to quantify the effects of heel-forefoot height on ankle kinematics during locomotion in children. Measurements were taken by a motion capture system and a force plate on five children. They were asked to perform standing, walking, jogging and sidestepping in barefoot, low heel, standard heel and high heel shoe conditions. Results showed that rearfoot plantarflexion angle was different from shoe rake during standing. There was more ankle plantarflexion as heel height increased during walking, jogging and sidestepping. Ankle inversion velocity increased with shod condition but not significantly. High heel height will affect ankle kinematics during locomotion, which may increase the risk of foot problems. Children and their parents should choose footwear with caution.