COMPUTERIZED ELECTRONIC BAROPODOMETRY– A MODALITY TO EVALUATE THE SPINAL COLUMN DYSFUNCTIONS IN PERFORMANCE ATHLETES
COMPUTERIZED ELECTRONIC BAROPODOMETRY– A MODALITY TO EVALUATE THE SPINAL COLUMN DYSFUNCTIONS IN PERFORMANCE ATHLETES

Summary/Abstract: Introduction Computerized baropodometry represents a technique specialized in the analysis of the distribution and measurement of plantar pressure exerted by different somatic structures, through an electronic recording platform. Determinant for the foot mechanics study, it provides objective data related to the body center of gravity distribution and, implicitly, to the possible dysfunctions at the spinal column level. Purpose Relying on some case studies, the present paper aims at using the electronic baropodometry, as an efficient modality to objectify the vertebral column dysfunctions in performance female gymnasts, by considering their high incidence in this sports branch, with negative effects on the quality of life. Content In our study, we used the FootscanSystem device (developed by the Belgian Company “RSscan International”) based on the Footscan Software 7.97 Gait 2nd Generation, to determine the plantar pressure distributions in the bipodal static situation and during the gait support phase. We conducted our research at “Dr. Nicolae Robănescu” National Medical Center for Children’s Rehabilitation of Bucharest and our subjects were the female gymnasts from the Sports Club of UNEFS Bucharest. Conclusion Electronic baropodometry represents a unique and accurate evaluation tool that can be used to identify the forefoot or the rear-foot plantar pressure distribution, the maximum pressure points, the forefoot deviation tendency in supination or pronation, the way in which the center of gravity is distributed on each foot, as well as the association of some pathologies, such as the spinal column dysfunctions or imbalances at the pelvis level.

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