The objectives of this study were to measure the impact forces of the foot on a force platform using different step riser heights and investigate the correlation between the force and the subjects' anthropometric variables. Also, to measure the discomfort level of the subject after every step, and to determines the riser height range that results in safe impact forces. This study used twelve male adult subjects to step down six different steps in a balanced randomized order. The analysis of the Fz (vertical forces) values shows that the impact forces of the foot increase significantly with the increase in riser height and the subject's weight. There was no correlation between the height of the subjects and the impact forces. The study recommends the use of a 7" to 8.5" step riser height range for stairway. The 7" height was comfortable for all subjects, and the 8.5" or 21.6 cm height was comfortable for most subjects although the measured impact forces were significantly different. The 10, 11.5 and 13 inches steps were uncomfortable for all subjects and were not supported by the reviewed literature.
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