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.

Anterior Shin Splints

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Complaints

  • Pain and tenderness along anterior (front) of shin
  • Pain may increase with running and walking activities

Possible Causes

  • Weak anterior tibialis muscle
  • Tight calf
  • Excessive pronation
  • Soft, unstable shoes

Shoe Profile

The long axis of shoe should provide maximum torsional control of medial foot rotation (pronation) and the the midsole should provide proper vertical support. Proper support allows the shin muscles (dorsiflexors) to function more efficiently.

Orthotics

Neutral (mild pronators) – Over-the-counter orthotics may be beneficial
Moderate to excessive pronators – Custom orthotics may be beneficial

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

Beneficial for overpronators. The extra support allows the anterior shin muscles to become more efficient.

ProStretch for calf muscles

Helps to provide more flexibility in the calf complex, reducing the workload on the anterior shin muscles.

FlexiKold Gel Cold Pack

Ice therapy to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation.

Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks

Reduces pain and fatigue while increasing blood flow.

TheraBand Light Resistance Band Kit

Excellent for providing strength training.

The Stick

Excellent method for massaging both the anterior shin and calf complex to reduce muscle tension and increase flexibility.

Exercises

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

With all strengthening exercises, start with 3 sets of 10 repetitions. If you experience any sort of pain reduce your reps to 3 sets of 5. 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 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 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.
Foot Up Elastics Exercise
  1. Place knot of elastic (Theraband) in door jamb about one foot up from the floor.
  2. Sit on floor with leg out straight and attachment of elastic at the bottom of the foot.
  3. lace elastic around inside of foot just below the toes.
  4. Back up to pick up slack of elastic.
  5. Pull foot up keeping knee straight and hold.
  6. Slowly return to the starting position and repeat.

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


October 2023 test data is now live!