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.

Lateral Ankle Sprain (Eversion)

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Complaints

  • Feeling of ankle rolling outwards or giving way
  • Weakness
  • Swelling
  • Increased ankle pain with running and walking activities

Possible Causes

  • Weak ankle joint musculature
  • Increased laxity in ligaments and tendons surrounding joint
  • Pes Cavus (high arched / rigid) foot
  • Excessive pronation
  • Lack of shoe support

Shoe Profile

The long axis of the shoe should provide maximum torsional control of foot rotation (pronation/supination). The midsole of the shoe should have moderate to firm vertical support. This, along with a firm heel counter, translates stability to the ankle.

Orthotics

Neutral (mild pronators) – Over-the-counter orthotics may be beneficial
Moderate to Excessive Pronators or Pes Cavus feet – Custom orthotics

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 increased stability for the foot and ankle.

ProStretch for calf muscles

Increase flexibility in the calf allows for the ankle stabilizers (muscles) to function more efficiently.

ASO Ankle Stabilizer

Provides maximum support while playing sports.

ProTec Athletic ankle support

Provides light ankle support.

TheraBand Light Resistance Band Kit

Excellent for strengthening the ankle.

FlexiKold Gel Cold Pack

Provides relief for pain and reduces swelling and inflammation.

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
 Foot Out Elastic 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.
  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 outside and above the foot.
  3. Place elastic around inside of foot just below the toes.
  4. Move leg away from attachment of the elastic to pick up slack.
  5. Keeping leg still, pull foot out against elastic without rotating leg 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!