Foot-strength test device and methods for use
Inventors
Assignees
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
Publication Number
US-9839389-B2
Publication Date
2017-12-12
Expiration Date
2035-04-17
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Abstract
The present disclosure provides a device for testing the strength of a human foot. The device includes a substantially planar member having a top surface and a bottom surface. The device also includes a foot-engaging member moveable along the top surface substantially planar member from a first position to a second position. In addition, the device includes a force sensor fixed with respect to the substantially planar member, where the force sensor resists movement between the first position and the second position. Further, the device includes a tension bearing element connecting the foot-engaging member to the force sensor.
Core Innovation
The invention provides a device and methods for testing the strength of a human foot, particularly focused on measuring intrinsic foot muscle strength. The device includes a substantially planar member with a top and bottom surface, a foot-engaging member that can move along the top surface from a first position to a second position, a force sensor fixed with respect to the planar member to measure force exerted, and a tension bearing element connecting the foot-engaging member to the force sensor. The foot-engaging member resists movement between the positions, transmitting force to the sensor.
The device addresses the need for a valid and reliable measure of intrinsic muscle strength, which is important for normal functional activities and the evaluation of foot pathology or rehabilitation. Current methods for measuring intrinsic muscle properties lack agreement regarding the most appropriate measure of strength, which creates the need for improved devices and quantitative methods. This device and related methods aim to fill that gap by providing a more practical and standardized approach.
Methods described for using the device involve placing the user’s foot on the planar member, engaging the toes with the moveable foot-engaging member (linked to a force sensor), and having the user pull the member from one position to another while keeping the heel stationary. The force sensor records the peak force exerted. Variations in foot-engaging members and measurements, such as average force and peak force over time, are possible depending on the specific embodiment employed.
Claims Coverage
The patent contains two independent claims that define the primary inventive features of the device and method for testing human foot strength.
Foot-strength testing device using a planar member, moveable foot-engaging member, force sensor, tension bearing element, and recessed track with complementary flange
The device comprises: - A substantially planar member with a top surface and a bottom surface. - A foot-engaging member moveable along the top surface from a first position to a second position. - A force sensor fixed with respect to the planar member, measuring force by detecting movement of the foot-engaging member between the positions. - A tension bearing element connecting the foot-engaging member to the force sensor. - A recessed track on the top surface, and a complementary flange on the foot-engaging member, ensuring guided movement along the track.
Method for testing the strength of a human foot using the device
The method involves: 1. Positioning the human foot on the top surface of the substantially planar member of the device. 2. Engaging one or more toes of the human foot with the foot-engaging member. 3. Moving the toes (while the heel remains stationary) from the first to the second position. 4. Recording the peak force detected by the force sensor.
The claims cover a specialized device incorporating a moveable foot-engaging member, a tension measuring system, and guided movement features, as well as a method for obtaining quantitative muscle strength measurements using this device.
Stated Advantages
Provides a quantitative measure of intrinsic foot muscle strength for screening, patient evaluation, and research purposes.
Offers a practical method and device to quantify strength of intrinsic foot muscles, which was previously lacking.
Documented Applications
Screening for prevention related to foot and lower extremity issues.
Evaluation of patients with lower extremity pathology.
Use as a variable in lower extremity research studies.
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