| Summary |
The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of orthotics on gait mechanics and running economy in symptomatic recreational runners. Ten recreational runners, with lower extremity pain were prescribed orthotic devices and participated in three 10 minute submaximal runs at 70% of their predetermined VO2max. Four conditions were analyzed: (1) pre-orthotic shoes only; (2) shoes plus additional weights; (3) shoes plus orthotics; and (4) postO accommodation shoes only. Subjects were given a 2 week accommodation period between the second and third conditions. Prenation was analyzed during the seventh minute of each submaximal run. Maximum pronation angle was reduced 19% (dependent t-test, p[less-than].05) in shoes and orthotics compared to shoes only. No significant differences were noted in the time to reach maximum pronation. After removing the orthotics maximum pronation angle increased 12% (p[less-than].05) and time to maximum pronation increased 17% (p[less-than].04) compared to running with the devices. There were no significant differences in submaximal V02 and V02max between any of the tests. In conclusion, prescribed orthotic devices produced meaningful biomechanical changes but these changes did not result in improved running economy. If orthotics do improve running economy over time, it is suggested that future research involve a greater accommodation period to allow neuromuscular adaptations to develop. |
| General note | Submitted to the faculty of the Department of Exercise and Sport Science. |
| General note | Advisor: Paul DeVita |
| Dissertation note | M.A. East Carolina University 1997 |
| Bibliography note | Includes bibliographical references (leaves 57-63). |
| Genre/form | Academic theses. |
| Genre/form | Academic theses. |
| Genre/form | Thèses et écrits académiques. |
