CUSHIONING EFFECT OF HEEL CUPS

Three types of heel cups, two rubber and one plastic, were evaluated i n this study. The vertical forces under the heel were monitored using the Computer Dyno Graphy system in 16 normal subjects. Peak force redu ction in walking and running after heel cup use was found for all thre e types of heel cups. The shock absorbency (peak force reduction as a ratio) of heel cups was better in walking (3.5 km h(-1)) than in runni ng (10 km h(-1)). Pressure-sensitive film under the heel revealed that the pressure concentration at the location of calcaneal tuberosity co uld be smoothed out by the use of heel cups. When plastic heel cups we re used, pedobarography showed that the contact area of the heel while standing decreased to 61% of that when barefoot. Roentgenographic stu dy in six patients with heel pain syndrome showed that the thickness o f the heel pad increased from 14.4 mm (SD 1.4 mm) to 17.0 mm (SD 1.2 m m) when plastic heel cups were used. Relevance Rubber and plastic heel cups increase the shock absorption of the heel through different mech anisms. Rubber heel cups act as an external shock absorber, while plas tic heel cups increase the internal shock absorption by confining the heel pad. We recommend rubber heel cups for patients with heel pain du e to inflammation, and plastic heel cups for those with atrophy of the heel pad.