A new measurement method of the center of pressure trajectory during gait

The results obtained using the conventional method of measuring the center of pressure (COP) trajectory during gait are influenced by the foot progression angle. To correct this, a method was developed and differences in measurements between the new and conventional methods were identified. The subjects were 18 healthy adults. A gait analysis force plate was used to determine the COP distribution during gait at the rearfoot, midfoot, and forefoot parts, using the conventional and new methods. The results were subsequently compared. At all planar positions, the new method assessed the COP at a more lateral position than the conventional method. The new method for quantifying the COP trajectory ensures that the foot angle does not affect the results. The present results indicated that the COP trajectory is further lateral than previous studies.