Abstract:

In the last years, research about medium and long-distance running injuries causes has grown. Biomechanical dysfunctions, load progression, and tissue stress seems to be involved but despite extensive studies, the factors that influence injuries and performance are still unclear. Biomechanical analysis, particularly of ground impacts, is usefull for optimizing efficiency and reduce injury risk. Biofeedback has emerged as a promising tool for improving gait, although the variability of study designs does not clarify the most effective typology. This study aimed to assess the acute effects of a sensorized insoles based visual biofeedback on running patterns in a sample of recreational runners. Methods: Between November 2023 and February 2024, 15 participants (6 females) were recruited and signed an informed consent. Participants wore their running shoes and carried out the four phases of the study at a self-selected speed. Between each phase a five minutes washout was done. The study started with six minutes of warm up on a treadmill (T3xm, Matrix, Italy). During the washout, participants wore the sensorized insoles (FlexInFeet, Sensormedica, Italy) and then performed the first evaluation (T0). The visual biofeedback intervention lasted six minutes. Via the Bluetooth transmitter of the insoles, the participants saw in real time the distribution of the foot load on a screen and were able to correct both weight bearing and rare foot impacts. Study ended with the second evaluation (T1). Evaluations lasted 90 seconds and were done with a baropodometric treadmill (Strider, Sensormedica). Spatiotemporal parameters analyzed for both limbs were: cadence, step length, contact time and step width. Results: At T1, compared to T0, all parameters improved. Cadence increased significantly (left 172.97±6.36, 164.38±5.55, p<0.001; right 172.99±4.81, 162.99±5.48, p<0.001). Contact time decreased significantly (left: 0.29±0.02, 0.30±0.02, p<0.001; right: 0.29±0.02, 0.31±0.03, p=0.001). No significant changes were observed for step length or width (p>0.05). Conclusions: Visual biofeedback has been shown to be effective in improving participants’ running patterns. Results suggest that the use of this technology could reduce the risk of injury and optimize the performance of the recreational runners.

Authors: Patanè P, Febbi M, Bottini L, Borsatti D, Cortese L, Del Bianco M, Guardamagna L, Marin L