Abstract:
This research outlines a methodology for creating and analyzing a patient-specific, three-dimensional finite element model (FEM) of the human forefoot to study internal stress distribution during walking. The model was constructed using magnetic resonance images (MRI), which were processed to segment different tissue types, including bone, skin, fat, and muscle. These structures were then meshed with eight-noded brick elements. The model incorporated realistic biomechanical properties, with bones treated as linear elastic and soft tissues (skin, fat, muscle) as nonlinear (hyperelastic) materials. A sensitivity analysis was conducted on muscle properties to account for stiffness changes during activation. The FEM was validated by simulating the stance phase of gait and comparing the model's predicted contact pressure profile to experimental data, which showed good agreement in pattern but differences in magnitude. The validated model was then used to analyze internal Von Mises stresses, finding that the peak stress in a non-diabetic foot was approximately 0.6 MPa. A comparative analysis with a diabetic foot model revealed significantly higher internal stresses (4 MPa vs. 0.6 MPa), demonstrating the model's potential for studying pathologies.
