Current Pedorthics | May-June 2018 | Vol.50, Issue 3 | Page 56

Comparative Analysis of User Perception and Step Length Using Toe Separating , Contoured Sandals versus Thong Style Flip-Flops

each sandal . In these subjects , the mean difference in averaged step length between the experimental sandal and the control sandal was 0.41 mm ( s = 0.39 mm ; p = 0.001 ). Discussion Aspects of the human gait have been analyzed in a variety of different styles of footwear including running shoes , high-heeled shoes , thong style flip-flops and minimalist shoes [ 3 , 8-15 ] . Comparisons have been made between each of these groups ; however , the effect of toe-separating sandals on step length and user satisfaction has not been analyzed or compared to traditional sandals . This study was designed to determine how the features of TSCS affect user satisfaction and step-length . Participants responded to the Likert-scale pilot , nonvalidated questionnaire with a clear impression that TSCS provide improved comfort , balance , stability , and support as compared to the control condition , a generic thong style flip-flop sandal . The questionnaire was developed and assessed by study investigators , and this study represents collection of initial pilot data for future validation of the tool . Table 2 details the responses to all 21 questions included in the survey completed by all 20 participants . When grouping questions related to stability and support , Figure 3 reveals subjects ’ perception of improved standing stability ( 100 %), walking stability ( 95 %), and structural support ( 95 %) provided by TSCS . A similar analysis is shown in Figure 4 , demonstrating subjects ’ satisfaction with overall support ( 75 %), balance ( 65 %), and , flexibility ( 45 %) afforded by TSCS when compared to the control thong style flip-flop . These values indicate a high level of user satisfaction and an overall positive perception of TSCS as an article of footwear .

Figure 3 : Participant ’ s Ranking on Stability and Support as provided by TSCS ( see below ).

Figure 4 : Participant ’ s Ranking on Support , Balance and Flexibility as provided by TSCS ( see below ).

These positive user perceptions could be explained by the intrinsic design of TSCS . The findings are in alignment with a previous study that indicated that “ flip-flops resulted in a shorter stride , a larger ankle angle at the beginning of double support and during the swing phase , a smaller braking impulse , and a shorter stance time compared with sneakers .” [ 16 ] . TSCS are equipped with a secure foot attachment including 4 interdigital toe separators , which attach to a dorsal forefoot strap . The contoured foot bed also provides arch support . Traditional flip-flops have

FIGURE 3 FIGURE 4

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