1/4 H Neuro #152 - The Foot: Sensory or Motor?

The Foot: Sensory or Motor?

In this episode, we explore the crucial role of the foot in athletic performance. Romain shares research conducted at the Hôpital de la Tour in Geneva, shedding light on the biomechanics of the foot.

Research on the Foot

Romain Tourillon conducted studies with 40 athletes, revealing that during accelerations, the strength of the foot significantly influences performance:

• 33% of the variation in net vertical impulse.
• 50% of the variation in contact time during maximum speed.
• 25 to 30% of the variation in force production during direction changes.

These results highlight the importance of targeted foot strengthening work, going beyond the toe yoga exercises often seen as sufficient.

Common Foot-Related Issues

Many patients present sensory problems in their feet. Indeed, many do not develop adequate sensory awareness, making any motor work challenging. For example:

• The Babinski test shows that some patients do not react, indicating hyposensitivity.
• This lack of sensitivity complicates work on foot mechanics.

It is essential to understand that sensory development must precede motor work.

The Link Between Sensory and Motor

It is crucial to stimulate the foot externally to strengthen the sensorimotor connection. Indeed, if the patient performs the stimulation themselves, it becomes sensorimotor work, not purely sensory. In the early days of rehabilitation, it is advisable to involve a close one to help develop this sensory awareness.

The process should include:

• Sensory work to recalibrate the sensorimotor loop.
• Systemic strengthening of the foot, involving the forefoot, midfoot, and the foot-ankle connection.

Conclusion

Foot work is fundamental for performance, whether for runners, athletes, or individuals with specific issues. It is essential to integrate tailored exercises that promote both sensory and motor functions to optimize the perception-action loop and improve movement quality. To learn more, follow us on social media and stay tuned for our upcoming episodes!