A team of researchers from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has designed a mobile device featuring a foot insole designed to sense a runner’s footstrike pattern and a smartphone app developed to provide real-time information.

According to the researchers in a media release, the device provides real-time information about footstrike patterns over the whole running bout, as well as feedback. Runners can then use the information to modify their gait mechanics in order to prevent injuries, as well as to rehabilitate them.

When it comes to rehabilitation, the device can help recovering runners realize their footstrike pattern and avoid the overloading of particular body structures. For example, runners with an impaired Achilles tendon should avoid striking the pavement with their forefoot.

[Source(s): The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Science Daily]