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A mechanical model of metatarsal stress fracture during distance running

Converse Biomechanics Laboratory, North Reading, Massachusetts

R.P. Bunch, MS

Converse Biomechanics Laboratory, North Reading, Massachusetts

A model of metatarsal mechanics has been proposed as a link between the high incidence of second and third metatarsal stress fractures and the large stresses measured beneath the second and third metatarsal heads during distance running. Eight discrete piezo electric vertical stress transducers were used to record the forefoot stresses of 21 male distance runners. Based upon load bearing area estimates derived from footprints, plantar forces were estimated. Highest force was estimated beneath the second and first metatarsal head (341.1 N and 279.1 N, respectively). Considering the toe as a hinged cantilever and the metatarsal as a proximally attached rigid cantilever allowed estimation of metatarsal midshaft bending strain, shear, and axial forces. Bending strain was estimated to be greatest in the second metatarsal (6662 µ), a value 6.9 times greater than estimated first metatarsal strain. Predicted third, fourth, and fifth metatarsal strains ranged be tween 4832 and 5241 µ. Shear force estimates were also greatest in the second metatarsal (203.0 N). Axial forces were highest in the first metatarsal (593.2 N) due to large hallux forces in relationship to the remain ing toes. Although a first order model, these data highlight the structural demands placed upon the sec ond metatarsal, a location of high metatarsal stress fracture incidence during distance running.

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