A research pilot project to test the efficacy of current pedorthic practices in the Canadian Forces

Impact loading is a major factor in the high prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries among military personnel during operational tasks. One of the therapeutic purposes of a pedorthic approach is to attenuate impact load through footwear and supportive device cushioning. The following research pilot p...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Work (Reading, Mass.) Mass.), 2006, Vol.26 (2), p.207-214
Main Authors: Pelham, Thomas W., Rowe, Peter R.T., Robinson, Michael G., Holt, Laurence E.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Armed forces
Canada
Effectiveness
Female
Foot
Humans
Male
Military Personnel
Musculoskeletal system
Musculoskeletal System - injuries
Occupational accidents
Orthopedic apparatus
Orthopedics
Orthotic Devices
Pilot Projects
Safety management
Shoes
Shoes & boots
Statistical analysis
Studies
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Summary:Impact loading is a major factor in the high prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries among military personnel during operational tasks. One of the therapeutic purposes of a pedorthic approach is to attenuate impact load through footwear and supportive device cushioning. The following research pilot project attempts to investigate this relationship. Vertical acceleration was collected at the fourth lumbar level in 30 members of the Canadian Forces (CF) during two ladder descents on a CF warship. Body weight, time of descent, and a description of footwear and any additional supportive appliances were also collected. None of the evaluated variables were significantly different between members wearing standard issue footwear and medically prescribed footwear and supportive devices. Although the results of this research pilot must be viewed with caution, the preliminary findings of this pilot tends to suggest that the current pedorthic practices may not effectively reduce peak impact forces at the fourth lumbar level of the spine among CF personnel during a selected naval activity.
ISSN:1051-9815
1875-9270
DOI:10.3233/WOR-2006-00509