Foot Deformities in Women Are Associated with Wearing High-Heeled Shoes

Abstract

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to assess the association between foot deformities and type of shoe regularly worn at work.Material/MethodsWe studied 150 employed women ages 30–40 years and divided them into 3 groups according to type of footwear worn: women in Group I wore flat-soled shoes, women in Group II wore mid-heeled shoes (heels 4.0±0.5 cm), and women in Group III wore high-heeled shoes (heels 10.0±0.5 cm). We used the CQ-ST podoscope for measurements.ResultsWe found significant differences in right foot γ angle between Groups I and III (p=0.033) and between Groups II and III (p=0.040). For the left foot, differences were noted between Groups I and III (p=0.012). Group III subjects had higher values of α angle compared to Group I (p=0.000) and Group II (p=0.000). Significant correlations were also found between specific type of footwear worn and the incidence of hallux valgus of the right foot (p=0.010) and left foot (p=0.000), and the varus deformity of the fifth toe (β) of the left foot (p=0.015).ConclusionsThe feet of women wearing high-heeled shoes were significantly flatter transversely, with a more laterally flexed hallux, as compared to those wearing low-heeled or flat-soled shoes. Wearing high-heeled shoes was associated with higher incidence of hallux valgus. The incidence of varus deformity of the fifth toe was associated with wearing high-heeled shoes.

Body weight-dependent foot loads, assessed in terms of BMI and adiposity, in school-aged children: a cross sectional study

“…While appraising oneself of the biomechanics of a human body, foot pressure and foot load as the key factors should primarily be taken into account. Specifically targeted studies, conducted both in adults and children, highlight the fact that abnormalities in the feet consequently affect the skeletal-articular system at large [15][16][17][18] . Presently, wide availability of modern, non-invasive test platforms facilitates measuring the pressure of the plantar part of the foot, while standing and walking.…”

“…The Clarke's angle and Wejsflog index were assessed. The Clarke's angle below 30º is construed synonymous with flat-footedness, values within the 31°-41° range denote a foot with a lowered longitudinal vaulting, the ones within the 42°-54° range attest to its anatomically correct vaulting, whereas the angle over 55° attests to a high-arched foot 17,18,40 . Taking into account the values of the Wejsflog index, the transverse vaulting of the foot is assessed.…”

Influence of footwear fitting on feet morphology in 9 year old girls

“…It is equally important to adjust the footwear width, mainly due to the comfort of its use. Chaiwanichsiri et al [8] pointed out that wearing too narrow shoes, especially in childhood, causes abnormal tension in the muscles and tendons of the feet, the formation of bunions and unsightly thickenings. Too narrow shoes compress the feet, hindering their natural development, as well as impede the work of the muscles.…”

“…According to Chaiwanichsiri et al [8] wearing too short shoes can be a direct cause of toe deformation. Klein et al [18] assessed the validity of the claim, which assumes that wearing shoes of insufficient length directly affects the risk of lateral toe dislocation.…”

“…The human foot is shaped throughout all life in a way that is individual for every human being. The variability of its shape is a result of various factors, including genetic, environmental, socio-economic, lifestyle and type of footwear worn [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8]. According to Kinz et al [9] 96-99% of children are born with healthy feet, however, 40% suffer from health problems related to feet in their adult life.…”