Dynamic finite element analysis of running with different foot strike patterns

The study aimed to examine and compare the foot arch deformation and plantar fascia tension in running with different foot strike techniques using computational modeling approaches. We hypothesized that FFS would produce a higher foot arch drop, larger plantar ligament stress and plantar fascia tensile force for the runner than RFS. The results showed that forefoot strike increased the foot arch drop (2.06-9.12% higher), plantar connective tissues stress (18.28-200.11% higher), and plantar fascia tensile force (18.71-109.10% higher) compared to heel strike.