Intra-Session Repeatability of Static Pedobarometric Measurements: Analysis of Variability in Plantar Pressure Parameters and the Spatial Localization of the Center of Pressure and Peak Pressure
Lucia Bednarčíková, Teodor Tóth, Monika Michalíková, Patrícia GajdošováStatic pedobarometry is widely used to assess plantar pressure distribution and postural control; however, its clinical interpretation depends on measurement repeatability and reliability. The aim of our article is to evaluate the repeatability of plantar pressure parameters and the spatial localization of the center of pressure (CoP) and peak pressure (PP) during static bipedal standing. Five healthy adults underwent 30 repeated static measurements using the Sidas Press-Cam platform under standardized laboratory conditions. Analyzed parameters included contact area, mean pressure, peak pressure, and the center of pressure coordinates. Repeatability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and Bland–Altman analysis. Contact area showed high single-measure repeatability (ICC (2, 1) = 0.90). Peak pressure and mean pressure demonstrated moderate repeatability for single trials but excellent repeatability when averaged (ICC (2, k) = 0.97–0.996). The center of pressure exhibited greater mediolateral than anteroposterior variability. Peak pressure localization remained stable within 3 SD and predominantly on the dominant limb. Averaging multiple trials enhances measurement repeatability, suggesting that repeated static pedobarometric assessments may provide more consistent estimates of plantar pressure parameters. However, these findings should be interpreted as preliminary evidence from an intra-session repeatability study due to the limited sample size.