The significance of plantar pressure plate in the study of fall prevention in the elderly

The Significant Importance of Plantar Pressure Plate in Fall Prevention Research for the Elderly

The plantar pressure plate technology provides a scientific and quantitative assessment method for fall prevention in the elderly. Its application value is mainly reflected in the following aspects:

1. Early Warning of Fall Risk

By measuring the plantar pressure distribution of the elderly during standing and walking, their balance ability and gait stability can be objectively evaluated. Research shows that the balance ability of 70-year-old elderly is usually only 30% of that at age 20, while scientific training can restore neuromuscular control ability to 80%. The plantar pressure plate can accurately identify the following risk factors:

• Center of gravity deviation: Abnormal COP trajectory indicates decreased postural control ability.

• Left-right asymmetry: Insufficient plantar pressure on one side reflects lower limb strength imbalance.

• Abnormal support area: Reduced contact area indicates declining balance ability.

These data can detect fall risks earlier than subjective observation, achieving “prevention before occurrence.”

2. Formulation of Personalized Intervention Programs

Based on plantar pressure data, precise intervention measures can be developed for different risk types:

• Balance training: Center of gravity transfer training for those with COP deviation.

• Strengthening muscle power: Lower limb strength training for those with insufficient unilateral pressure.

• Assistive device adaptation: Customized corrective insoles for those with fallen arches.

• Environmental modification: Home anti-slip adjustments based on gait analysis.

Community elderly care centers can dynamically adjust intervention programs through monthly screening.

3. Scientific Evaluation of Rehabilitation Effects

By comparing plantar pressure data before and after intervention, rehabilitation effects can be objectively quantified:

• Improvement in pressure distribution uniformity.

• Enhancement of COP trajectory stability.

• Optimization of gait symmetry index.

This data-driven evaluation method is more reliable than subjective perception and significantly improves treatment compliance among the elderly.

4. Development of Intelligent Fall Prevention Systems

Plantar pressure data provides core technical support for intelligent fall prevention devices:

• Early warning systems: Predict fall risk through real-time pressure monitoring.

• Location-based rescue: Automatically send location information in case of a fall.

• Remote monitoring: Family members can check the balance status of the elderly through an app.

The “fall-prevention shoes” developed in Chongqing have already achieved commercial application, with the core based on plantar pressure analysis.

5. Social Benefits and Health Management

Plantar pressure plate technology shifts fall prevention from passive treatment to proactive management:

• Reducing medical costs: Each fall prevented can save tens of thousands of yuan in treatment expenses.

• Improving quality of life: Maintaining independent mobility is crucial for the elderly’s mental well-being.

• Promoting smart elderly care: Becoming a “standard health management tool” in community elderly centers.

Research at Beijing Sport University shows that scientific balance training can restore the neuromuscular control ability of 70-year-olds to 80% of their younger levels.

Through quantitative assessment, precise intervention, and continuous monitoring, this technology is changing traditional fall prevention management models and providing practical solutions for an aging society.