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

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

Affiliations

¹School of Engineering, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK

²Human Movement Research Center, Zhejiang College of Sports, Zhejiang 311231, China

³School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 2ET, UK

⁴Biomedical Engineering Center, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China

⁵Biomechanics and Medical Information Institute, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China

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.

Links

DOI: 10.1007/s00264-009-0856-4

PubMed: 19685241

WoS: 000277942200008

History

Received: 2009-04-30

Revised: 2009-07-01

Accepted: 2009-07-28

Online: 2009-08-15

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Cited By (4)

Year	Entry
2016	Morales-Orcajo E, Bayod J, Barbosa de Las Casas E. Computational foot modeling: scope and applications. Arch Comput Methods Eng. September 2016;23(3):389-416.
2013	Burkhart TA, Andrews DM, Dunning CE. Finite element modeling mesh quality, energy balance and validation methods: a review with recommendations associated with the modeling of bone tissue. J Biomech. May 31, 2013;46(9):1477-1488.
2022	Malakoutikhah H, Madenci E, Latt LD. The contribution of the ligaments in progressive collapsing foot deformity: a comprehensive computational study. J Orthop Res. September 2022;40(9):2209-2221.
2020	Ellison MA. Beam Theory and Finite Element Approaches to Modelling the Stresses in the Second Metatarsal During Running [PhD thesis]. Exeter, UK: University of Exeter; March 2020.