Pressure distribution patterns under the feet of new walkers: the first two months of independent walking.

In order to describe foot function during the first weeks of independent walking, spatio-temporal pressure distribution patterns were measured. These data give detailed information about roll-off of the foot, by determining the course of the center of pressure, and about load bearing, by calculating relative vertical impulses under the feet. During those first weeks of independent walking, roll-off is very unstable. Although infants can occasionally perform a mature roll-off, a consistent pattern has not yet developed and there is instability. To improve stability the entire plantar surface area contributes to load bearing--first, because a larger contact area will improve stability, and second, because a forward shifting of the load allows more muscular control to compensate for minor imbalances under the foot.