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01-06-2010 | Original Paper

Computer simulation of stress distribution in the metatarsals at different inversion landing angles using the finite element method

Authors: Y. D. Gu, X. J. Ren, J. S. Li, M. J. Lake, Q. Y. Zhang, Y. J. Zeng

Published in: International Orthopaedics | Issue 5/2010

Abstract

Metatarsal fracture is one of the most common foot injuries, particularly in athletes and soldiers, and is often associated with landing in inversion. An improved understanding of deformation of the metatarsals under inversion landing conditions is essential in the diagnosis and prevention of metatarsal injuries. In this work, a detailed three-dimensional (3D) finite element foot model was developed to investigate the effect of inversion positions on stress distribution and concentration within the metatarsals. The predicted plantar pressure distribution showed good agreement with data from controlled biomechanical tests. The deformation and stresses of the metatarsals during landing at different inversion angles (normal landing, 10 degree inversion and 20 degree inversion angles) were comparatively studied. The results showed that in the lateral metatarsals stress increased while in the medial metatarsals stress decreased with the angle of inversion. The peak stress point was found to be near the proximal part of the fifth metatarsal, which corresponds with reported clinical observations of metatarsal injuries.

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Title: Computer simulation of stress distribution in the metatarsals at different inversion landing angles using the finite element method
Authors: Y. D. Gu
X. J. Ren
J. S. Li
M. J. Lake
Q. Y. Zhang
Y. J. Zeng
Publication date: 01-06-2010
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: International Orthopaedics / Issue 5/2010
Print ISSN: 0341-2695
Electronic ISSN: 1432-5195
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-009-0856-4

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Computer simulation of stress distribution in the metatarsals at different inversion landing angles using the finite element method

Abstract

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