Do shoe insoles that stimulate foot skin receptors alter balance and leg muscle activity in adults with foot nerve damage?

Reduced sensation in the soles of the feet can impair postural stability and increase the risk of falls. Plantar sensory feedback plays an important role in postural control. Vibrotexture insoles may enhance this sensory input through gentle mechanical stimulation of the plantar surface. This study investigates whether vibrotexture insoles can improve balance in adults with and without reduced plantar sensation. Who can participate? Adults aged 18 years or older who can safely perform the study tasks are eligible. We are particularly interested in individuals with reduced foot sensation associated with multiple sclerosis (MS), diabetes or ageing. People with Parkinson's disease, stroke, motor neuron disease, significant heart or musculoskeletal conditions limiting walking, current foot ulcers or leg injuries, inherited causes of foot nerve damage, or difficulty walking more than 20 metres (even with a mobility aid) are not eligible. Individuals with allergies to adhesive tape or bandages are also excluded. What's involved? Participants will attend a single testing session of approximately three hours at The University of Queensland's St Lucia campus. Following questionnaires and assessments of plantar sensation, participants will complete standing balance tasks under different visual and surface conditions while wearing two types of insoles. Postural stability will be assessed using a force platform, while lower-limb muscle activity will be recorded using surface electromyography (EMG). Additional controlled leaning tasks will assess muscle responses during balance-related activities. Participants will also receive a $40 gift card in recognition of their time. This research aims to improve understanding of how plantar sensory stimulation influences muscle activity and postural control, potentially contributing to accessible, non-invasive strategies to improve balance and reduce fall risk in individuals with reduced foot sensation. Go to survey