Developing a Biofeedback Device for Ground Reaction Forces (2013)

Undergraduate: Sara Oliver

Faculty Advisor: Richard Goldberg
Department: Applied Sciences

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High magnitude ground reaction forces and accompanying high loading rates have been linked to increased risk of injury in runners. The high levels place excessive stress on the lower limbs which can lead to injury and long-term damage such as stress fractures and arthritis. The goal of this project was to design and build a portable device capable of measuring the loading rate of ground reaction forces. The device would provide biofeedback to the user during normal training routines which would enable the user to alter their running style to reduce their ground reaction force loading rate. Two prototypes were built which measured the loading rate and provided biofeedback. During calibration and final testing, problems were revealed, an ineffective biofeedback mechanism and an improper sensor interface. These problems will need to be addressed before the device is ready for use.