Validation of a kinect-based 3d plantar foot scanner in weight-bearing

Acquiring the shape of foot plantar surface is critical to perform anatomical measurements, for objective diagnosis of foot morphological alterations and to design custom orthotics and footwear. Whereas laser scanners are currently the gold-standard for accurate 3D digitization of body parts, these devices are often unsuitable for foot scanning in weight-bearing and their costs limit their application in research contexts. In this study, the accuracy and the repeatability of a novel 3D foot scanner based on the Microsoft Kinect sensor were investigated in a population of healthy subjects. The scanner showed large intra-operator repeatability (RMS error = 1.2mm), and an accuracy suitable for clinical applications when compared to a high-resolution commercial laser-based foot scanner (RMS error < 3mm). The present 3D foot scanner based on the Kinect sensor appeared simple to use and may represent a valid low-cost alternative to current commercial scanners.