New Delhi/ Bhubaneswar, September 25: Researchers at NIT Rourkela have developed a cost-effective, indigenous force plate to improve gait profiling and address heel pain.

Heel pain, often linked to issues with the plantar fascia or the heel pad, can be aggravated by aging, injury, or poor footwear.

The new device measures multi-axial ground reaction forces (GRF), crucial for diagnosing gait abnormalities and foot disorders.

Priced at Rs 8-10 lakhs, the force plate offers a 70-85% cost-saving compared to imported alternatives. This makes it accessible for sports academies, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers across India. It can also aid in diagnosing neuromuscular conditions like Parkinson’s disease, providing early detection and better treatment options.

NIT Rourkela’s innovation fills a critical gap in India’s diagnostic capabilities, offering an affordable, locally-made solution for advanced gait analysis.