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F-scan vs. Pedar

Discussion in 'General Issues and Discussion Forum' started by meiklejohnj, Mar 13, 2013.

  1. meiklejohnj

    meiklejohnj Welcome New Poster


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    Hi all,

    I an currently looking at purchasing either an F-scan or Pedar plantar pressure (insole) system and I just wondering if anyone had any research or opinions on either product. I am looking at using the system for research also so that is an important factor.

    If anyone could help our it would be greatly appreciated!

    Cheers,

    Joe
     
  2. Craig Payne

    Craig Payne Moderator

    Articles:
    8
    They both different and both have strengths and weaknesses. What exactly is the research question or area you want to use it for?
     
  3. meiklejohnj

    meiklejohnj Welcome New Poster

    Hi craig,

    We are looking at using it to aid in designing and monitoring of insoles to decrease pressure areas for high risk diabetic patients whom either currently have or are at risk of having neuropathic ulcers.

    I am also interested in ongoing costs as i have read that the F-scan insoles need to be replaced whereas the Pedar insoles only need to be calibrated annually.

    I have read that the Pedar X is more accurate and has better repeatability then the F-scan. Hsiaoa, H., Guana, J., & Weatherly, M. Accuracy and precision of two in-shoe pressure measurement systems. Ergonomics. 45(8) 537-555

    I have not been able to locate much recent evidence that compares the two though.

    I hope that makes sense.
     
  4. Boots n all

    Boots n all Well-Known Member

    We use the fscan for our clients with Diabetes PN to asses pressure and trajectory of both orthosis and rocker soles.

    We love the results but if you want to compare the two, why not contact your local supplier of each system and see who has the system(s) in use near you and go have a play with them.

    With Fscan, we calibrate each time we use a sensor and only use it 5 times.
     
  5. The last time I looked at in-shoe pressure insole systems, the F-Scan is cheaper to use but is less accurate whereas the PEDAR is more expensive but more accurate.

     
  6. Hi Joe,

    Parotec is an in shoe pressure measurement system from Paromed (Germany). We use it every day in our Brisbane podiatry clinics (Andrew Barlow Podiatry), and are also the Australia/NZ representatives for Paromed.

    Key points are:
    1. Parotec uses hydrocells for the pressure sensors (measures ground reaction force not vertical force; does not require re-calibration; and satisfies the durability requirements for everyday clinical use);
    2. Use either “stand-alone” or integrate with Paromed CAD/CAM foot orthotic modelling (overlay of pressure measurement onto plantar image of foot whilst modelling CAD/CAM orthotics – i.e. use results “on screen” when modelling orthotics);
    3. Paromed CAD/CAM orthotic production also allows for differential milling of soft tissue pads (i.e. milling of a poron aperture). Using combination of in shoe pressure measurement integrated with CAD/CAM orthotic modelling (which can produce “mill-finish” poron apertures - in correct placement); which can then be “tested” on patient with in shoe pressure measurement post-dispense, is pretty powerful integration of technology to improve patient outcomes;
    4. In clinic we use it as (a) diagnostic tool, (b) during modelling of orthotics, and (c) for evidence based evaluation of treatment outcomes (comparison of results both pre and post orthotic or footwear intervention);
    5. For research purposes Parotec software includes sophisticated graphical reporting for analysis and interpretation.

    David made a valid point of “road testing” various systems, for which we use our own Brisbane podiatry clinic as a full demonstration plant. Open invitation to “road test” Paromed pressure measurement systems and CAD/CAM foot scanners and orthotic carvers.

    We have numerous Australian case studies available, ranging from diabetic ulcers, MS, burns patients, partial amputees, and elite sports including runners, cricketers, weightlifters, etc. And to brag…it wasn’t a Melbourne based specialist who the Indian cricketer <confidential> flew in to see as was reported recently, but it did involve Parotec in shoe pressure measurement and Paromed CAD/CAM orthotics.

    Additionally, for research papers on Parotec in shoe pressure measurement you can refer:
    • Bauer, Foot and Ankle (2000) “…repeatability of the measurement values provided by the Parotec system was stable and consistent...”; ”…Parotec system was an effective tool in monitoring a wide range of pertinent biomechanical variables…”;
    • Chesnin, Thomas Jefferson Uni (2000) “…provides evidence of the validity of the Parotec system for measuring COP on the plantar surface of the foot during ambulation…”
    • Mander, Orthopadieschuhtechnik 1997

    Joe, I can email any case studies or research papers if you like, and we are happy arrange a demo and discuss our experience in using in shoe pressure measurement in our podiatry clinics everyday. Although we are a “vendor” (with bias), we are also “doing it” and certainly leaning forward when it comes to integrating technology for improved patient outcomes, clinical innovation and pursuit of excellence. At the end of the day you have to make a comparison based on your requirements… as noted earlier: try out the systems and ask to see relevant case studies, and the application and “integration” of the technology.

    Regards,
    Dieter Stahmer

    Paromed (Australia)
    www.paromed.com.au
     
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