A triplanar electrogoniometer investigation of running mechanics in runners with compensatory overpronation.

Abstract

Selected temporal events and associated kinematic parameters were studied about the knee and ankle during running using the C.A.R.S. -U.B.C. Triplanar Electrogoniometer, with and without corrective running orthotic devices (CRODs), in ten male runners who displayed compensatory overpronation. Extension and flexion, internal and external rotation plus varus and valgus displacement were recorded at the knee joint, while plantar and dorsi flexion, adduction and abduction plus inversion and eversion were recorded at the foot. CRODs produced a significant decrease (p less than 0.03) in the total amount of foot eversion during the support phase of running. The maximum amounts of support phase foot dorsiflexion and abduction were not altered significantly by CRODs. CRODs produced a significant increase (p less than 0.03) in the amount of plantar flexion occurring after foot strike. The knee was not fully extended at foot strike and up to ten degrees of additional knee extension took place after foot strike, before knee flexion began. None of the absolute time intervals between the achievement of the maximum of the three components of pronation (ankle abduction, eversion and dorsiflexion) and maximum knee flexion or maximum knee internal rotation were significantly altered by CRODs: Significant differences were detected between the left and right legs for several parameters at both the knee and ankle, which the authors believe warrants the separate examination and treatment of each leg when CRODs are to be used to control compensatory overpronation.