What is SSI?

Shoe Stability Index (SSI) is an indicator of shoe stability, as an index. SSI is derived through mathematically combining the quantified measurements of midfoot stability (TCI) and hindfoot stability (VCI), indicating the shoe’s overall ability to control the motion of the foot.

What is TCI?

Torsion Control Index (TCI) is a measurement of midfoot shoe stability, in inch-pound units (in.-lbs.). TCI is measured through actively twisting a shoe around the longitudinal axis of the shoe, from the heel to the area of the toes joints, simulating rotational forces of the foot, and measuring the shoe’s resistance to this motion.

The higher the TCI, the firmer the midfoot and more torsional stability. The lower the TCI, the softer the midfoot and less torsional stability.

What is VCI?

Vertical Compression Index (VCI) is a measurement of hindfoot shoe stability, in millimeters (mm). VCI is measured through compression of the heel portion of the shoe under a fixed amount of pressure, thereby measuring how the structure of the shoe controls rearfoot motion.

The higher the VCI, the softer the midsole and less hindfoot stability. The lower the VCI, the firmer the midsole and more hindfoot stability.

What is Loaded Heel to Toe Drop?

Loaded Heel to Toe Drop is the measurement in millimeters of the height of the heel relative to the fore foot when compressed to a fixed poundage. This can be defined as vertical support.

What is RI?

Rebound Index (RI) is an indicator of energy return of shoe to the foot, in millimeters (mm). RI is measured through compression of the heel portion of the shoe under a fixed amount of pressure, and then determining how much force the shoe exerts on the foot.

Achilles Tendonitis

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Complaints

  • Pain and/or tenderness at insertion of tendon or along tendon
  • Pain may increase with running, jumping and walking activities
  • Swelling along the lower portion and insertion (at the heel) of the achilles tendon

Possible Causes

  • Tight gastrocnemius (calf) / achilles tendon
  • Excessive pronation
  • Weak calf muscles
  • Soft, unstable shoes

Shoe Profile

A shoe midsole with maximum torsional stability is necessary when the foot has excessive pronation. This reduces strain on the Achilles tendon and calf muscles, allowing them to function more efficiently. To lower the tractional (pulling) forces on the Achilles tendon, a shoe with a firm midsole under the heel and a high to medium heel-to-toe ratio is beneficial.

Orthotics

Neutral (mild pronators) – 3 mm heel lift with or without over-the-counter arch supports
Excessive pronators – Custom orthotics with 3 plus mm heel lifts

Shoe Recommendations

The following shoes meet these criteria. Please click on the appropriate link to see the shoes and their test data.

personal_male_2 personal_female_2

Recommended Accessories

SuperFeet arch supports

Provides a more balanced and biomechanically efficient foot that results in less stress to the achilles tendon.

Heel Lift

Reduces tension on the achilles tendon resulting in less pain. Should be worn on both feet.

The Stick

Effective way to massage the calf to reduce muscle tension and to improve flexibility. Increased flexibility results in less tension on the achilles tendon.

TheraBand Light Resistance Band Kit

Very handy for developing a strengthening program.

SKLZ Cold Roller Ball

Provides targeted massage with ice therapy to reduce inflammation and pain.

Exercises**

**Please consult your physican before engaging in an exercise program.**

With all strengthening exercises, start with 3 sets of 10. If you experience any sort of pain reduce your reps to 3 sets of 5 repetitions. For all stretches, repeat 3 times holding each stretch for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Using RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) can be beneficial in the treatment of injuries as well.

Gastrocnemius (calf) Standing Stretch
 Soleus Standing Stretch
  1. Stand with hands resting on wall or on stable object.
  2. Place the UNINVOLVED leg forward of the involved leg.
  3. Keep the back leg (involved leg) straight and heel on the ground throughout the exercise.
  4. Lean body forward bending at ankles and hold.
  5. Return to starting position, relax, and repeat.
  1. Stand with hands resting on wall or on stable object.
  2. Place the UNINVOLVED leg forward of the involved leg.
  3. Keep heel on the ground throughout the exercise.
  4. Bend knees, squat down, and hold.
  5. Return to starting position, relax and repeat.
Heel Raises Exercise
 Foot Down Elastic Exercise
  1. Stand next to a wall or a chair with both feet on the ground pointing straight ahead.
  2. Push front of foot down lifting heels and body weight onto balls of feet.
  3. Slowly return to starting position and repeat.
  1. Sit on flat surface with leg out straight.
  2. Place elastic (Theraband) around bottom of foot just below toes.
  3. Grasp the other end of elastic in hand and pull back to pick up slack.
  4. Keeping hand still, point foot down stretching elastic and hold.
  5. Slowly return to starting position and repeat.

Images reproduced courtesy of T.E.D.© (Therapeutic Exercise Database) V. 2.0


October 2023 test data is now live!