Where should stiffness be measured in vivo?

Abstract

Three points in the medial aspect of the leg are routinely used to measure the interface pressure of a compression: the C point, at the largest circumference of the calf; the B point, at the smallest circumference of the leg; the anatomical B1 point, at the apex of the gastrocnemius muscle and the manufacturer’s B1 point, computed in the midline of the line joining the B point to the C point). The anatomical B1 point is the most reliable point from a practical point of view, and is easier to use. The underlying anatomy is the Soleus muscle. Stiffness at the anatomical B1 point seems adequate sufficient to assess stiffness of a medical device in vivo.