Foot Pressure Distribution Variation in Pre-obese, Obese and Non-obeseIndividuals – Forensic Implications

Abstract

The present commentary refers to recent research on the plantar pressure distribution variation in pre-obese, obese and non-obese adult individuals. While the studies observe significant changes in the contact area in the mid foot region i.e. instep region, no statistically significant differences were observed in the pressure distribution of the fore-foot and hind-foot region among the pre-obese and non-obese groups. Thus, the pressure distribution of the sole of the individuals depends upon the body weight of the individuals. In this commentary, we emphasize that the results of these studies; besides their clinical implications, have applications in forensic sciences especially in the field of forensic podiatry too which is concerned with the examination of pedal evidence recovered at the crime scene. especially in the field of forensic podiatry which deals with the examination of pedal evidence recovered at the crime scene. Various kinds of bare foot impressions are often recovered at the crime scenes. These impressions are inadvertently left in the blood, water, mud, and freshly made floors etc. The results of the study can be of significance in analysis of footprints for predicting the body size of the perpetrator. In this regard, the effect of additional weight on the footprints has been studied by researchers (7). The dimensions of the footprints were significantly affected when the individuals were given additional weight of 20 kilograms. Significant changes in the contact area in mid foot regions between the pre-obese and obese groups as observed in the studies on plantar pressure distribution can give a clue to the body size from a footprint. At times, footwear may be recovered from the crime scenes. The foot impressions on the insoles of the footwear are also studied during criminal investigations. These impressions available on the insoles of the footwear can be matched with the footprints available at the crime scenes. These patterns found on the insoles of the footwear are also individualistic to a person who wore this footwear (8). The findings of research on plantar pressure distribution may be helpful in understanding the pattern on the insole of the footwear, and also supportive in interpreting the body size of the holder of the footwear.