Growth in demands for skaters has led to an increase in sport related injuries. Studies show that 44% of figure skaters experience overuse injuries. Current skates are composed of stiff leather uppers, padding, and a wooden and cork sole. Landing loads which reach forces up to ten times a skater’s weight are repetitively applied to the skater’s joints without a means of cushioning. Exposure to these high landing loads leads to overuse injuries. The objective of this project is to develop a mechanical absorption system for figure skates which will aid in the prevention of jump landing-related injuries without obstructing the skaters’. The design absorbs loads in the vertical direction, preventing injurious loads from reaching the foot and ankle.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Rehm, Devon Lynne
• Greene, Karin Emma

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-042413-214613

Advisor

• Brown, Christopher A.

Year

• 2013

Date created

• 2013-04-24

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biomedical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

Rights statement

• In Copyright