Students from the Physiotherapy Study Program at Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) took part in collaborative research with lecturers to develop a device that detects load distribution and foot arch conditions. The device, named the PlantarLoad Assessment Box, is designed to help with the process of screening foot sole conditions.
This research is part of the ongoing development of a device that had previously been created. In its latest version, the PlantarLoad Assessment Box gained an added feature that measures weight or load distribution between the right and left foot.
This development was carried out to help assess a person's foot arch condition, whether normal arch, flat foot, or high arch. Differences in load distribution between the right and left foot are also one of the aspects observable through the device.
During the development process, internet of things (IoT) technology was integrated to connect the measurement process with a web-based system. This integration allows data on body weight, right and left foot load distribution, and foot sole condition to be obtained and monitored more practically and precisely.
The device trial involved more than 40 participants, children from TK Aisyiyah 1 Gumpang. The involvement of these respondents was part of the research process to test the device's use in measuring load distribution and foot arch condition.
UMS Physiotherapy student Naila Putri Kasanda, who took part in the research, said her involvement in the study was a valuable experience, as it allowed her to follow the various stages of the device's development firsthand.
"For me, this was a very valuable experience. I'm happy and grateful to have gotten the chance to collaborate directly with a lecturer. Through this process, I didn't just learn about building the device, but also how to find novelty, carry out research, and process and analyze the results from the device we developed," she said, Tuesday (22/9/2026).
The research was carried out together with supervising lecturer Adnan Faris Naufal, S.Fis., M.Bmd., with students taking part in the research process and device development.
Through the development of the PlantarLoad Assessment Box, this research is expected to produce a foot sole screening device that's practical and easy to use, both in physiotherapy and in other health fields.
"Hopefully the PlantarLoad Assessment Box can become a foundation for further device development and research in physiotherapy," she said.
Writer: Maysali Sudarwati
Editor: Fika Annisa' Sholihah
Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid
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