In order to investigate the shape and size differences in feet caused by daily footwear, a comparative study was conducted on foot morphology in two populations. The data from six measurements in general physique and 18 measurements in the feet and their contours were obtained from 34 Filipino women in Isabela Province and 40 Japanese women in Tokyo. Despite the fact that the Tokyo women had larger physique than the Isabela women, there were no significant differences in foot size between two groups. Both relative size of foot for general physique and intragroup deviation of foot proportion were larger in the Isabela women than those in the Tokyo women. In comparing foot contour, many measurements relating particularly to foot proportion, represented by angles, showed significant differences between the two groups. In gross observation some of the Isabela women showed marked deformity of the grand toe to the lateral side, "like a hallux valgus' without any complaints. In principal-component analysis (PCA), CP1 was interpreted as size factor, CP2 was considered as position of foot axis, CP3 and CP4 were estimated as degree of angle between foot axis and ball axis. Means of individual score by PCA showed a completely inverse pattern between Isabela and Tokyo women. The differences in foot morphology recognized in these two groups were considered from the point of view of differences of daily footwear, which have not changed in the Philippines but have changed dramatically in Japan since World War II. We concluded that the deformity like a hallux valgus, frequently found in previous generations of Japanese who used to wear traditional footwear, geta and zori, must have been a healthy deformity, however, the pathological deformity hallux valgus is observed only in the Isabela women of today.

[Purpose] This study examined the effects of functional socks for female students with hallux valgus.[Subjects and Methods] Fourteen subjects (26 legs) with a hallux valgus angle of 15˚ or greater were divided into 2 groups for comparison: exercise + socks: 7 subjects (13 legs); and exercise-only: 7 subjects (13 legs). Physical alignment, the range of motion, ankle range of motion and foot muscle strength were measured, as well as the duration of the stance phase and its COP path length, and ground reaction force during walking.[Results] The exercise + socks group showed reduced vertical force at push-off and reduction in the hallux valgus angle when walking.[Conclusion] The functional socks for hallux valgus enhanced the effect of exercise therapy, and exercise therapy reduced the stress on the big toe when walking. The combination of socks with exercise therapy was highly effective for hallux valgus.

[1987][1988][1989][1990][1991][1992][1993][1994], he learned electromyography methods from Tetsuji Fujiwara, MD, and Jun Kimura, MD, professors emeriti (Kyoto University). He has extensively studied electromyography's use in physical therapy. His interests include fundamental research on the effects of neurological physical therapy using electromyography, especially spinal neural function using evoked F-wave electromyography and the development of Acupoint Stimulation Physical Therapy (ASPT), which combines physical therapy and acupuncture. The effect of ASPT is being investigated using electromyography and is expected to develop into a new physical therapy method. He has many original publications and books on these subjects. PrefacePhysical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, is a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialization that, by using mechanical force and movements, remedies impairments and promotes mobility, function, and quality of life through examination, diagnosis, prognosis, and physical intervention. In addition to clinical practice, other activities encompassed by the physical therapy profession include research, education, consultation, and administration. Physical therapy services may be provided alongside or in conjunction with other medical services. They are performed by physical therapists (known as physiotherapists in many countries) with the help of other medical professionals.This book consists of 11 chapters written by professionals from all around the world. It includes manuscripts on scapular muscle activity, physical function for elderly people, and important points for excise therapy with rhythmic movement. These manuscripts demonstrate precious points for physical therapy.Next, the book includes chapters on physical therapy for cancer, chronic venous disease, and mental health, special physical therapy for back pain, therapeutic ultrasounds, and others. This information should instruct global physical therapists and related experts. I am very pleased to be the editor of this book, as all manuscripts are excellent and open up new directions for physical therapists.