The term baro podometer is a word of invention coined in 1986 to identify a specific instrument for studying plantar pressures (Baro= pressure; Podo= foot; meter=measurement).

Thebaropodometric examination is a test to assess the quality of the ground support of the feet . The test provides information on the pressures that are exchanged between the foot’s bearing surface and the ground, and thoroughly assesses the manner of stride execution and any alterations in gait.