Foot Kinematics of Impact Absorption and Force Exertion During Depth-Jump Using a Multi-segment Foot Model

Purpose To determine the foot kinematics of the depth-jump in healthy adults. We examined the usefulness of a multi-segment foot model for a movement that requires impact absorption and force exertion on the foot. Methods Twenty healthy adults (ten men, ten women) performed a depth-jump from a 40-cm height box on to force plates. We analyzed foot motion on the landing and jump preparation phases using the Rizzoli Foot Model. Results A pattern of foot motion was observed during the depth-jump. Although there were no differences of the foot structure at the static standing position with respect to sex, the maximum angle of the medial longitudinal arch (MLA) in the landing phase was significantly greater in women than in men ( p = 0.017). The maximum angle of the MLA in the landing phase was strongly negatively correlated with the jump height ( r = − 0.6, p = 0.05). Conclusions By using a multi-segment foot model, it was possible to observe a common foot motion pattern among subjects, even during a quick movement such as the depth-jump. We suggest that motion analysis using the multi-segment foot model will be useful in evaluating the foot functions of impact absorption and force exertion during a dynamic movement such as the depth-jump.