Abstract:
This study combines magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with finite element analysis (FEA) to investigate the internal stress-strain state of the human foot under weight-bearing conditions. High-resolution MRI scans were used to develop anatomically accurate three-dimensional models, capturing bones, muscles, ligaments, and plantar soft tissues. The models were subjected to simulated physiological loads to analyze patterns of stress and strain across different foot regions. The results reveal how structural components of the foot—particularly the plantar fascia, soft tissues, and metatarsal bones—distribute and absorb loads during standing and locomotion. The study underscores the role of biomechanics in understanding foot function, identifying regions vulnerable to overuse or injury, and informing the design of orthotics, rehabilitation protocols, and footwear. By integrating imaging with computational mechanics, this research provides a precise, quantitative framework for analyzing complex foot mechanics.
