Hydrogel based material for orthotic application

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The main objective of this research proposal is to develop a procedural platform to design and fabricate foot orthotics made from a novel hydrogel biomaterial which was developed in our lab recently. This platform includes an optimum and engineering-based methodology for mechanical design of shoe insoles and its testing of the material properties. Foot orthotics manufactured with the novel hydrogel should undertake the following objectives:Relieve areas of high pressure including pressure concentration areas. Any zones on the foot where there is extreme pressure may result in muscle over use or injuries. Foot orthotics should help relieve these high-pressure zones and therefore decrease the incidence of associated problems.Moderate shock and shear. A decrease in the amount of vertical pressure, or shock, on the bottom of the foot is necessary. Also, a decrease of horizontal (planar) movement of the foot within the shoe, or shear is essential.To the best of the applicant's knowledge, this is the first time hydrogel based polymers are used for this application.