The prevalence of foot problems in older women: a cause for concern

Abstract

Most women in this age-group have been exposed to high-heeled shoes over many years, making aetiological research difficult in this area. Foot pain and deformities are widespread. The relationship between footwear, occupational activities and foot problems is a complex one that deserves considerably more research.

Plantar pressure distribution analysis in normal weight young women and men with normal and claw feet: A cross-sectional study

“…In conclusion, the reduction of plantar support surfaces in CFS of both sexes was associated to a major load per units of plantar surface in the forefoot and rear foot areas, and this may be a risk factor to lower extremity overuse injuries. In fact, Dawson et al (2002), Sosenko (2002), Olson et al (2003), and Kernozek et al (2003) already evidenced that claw foot, with other foot deformities, is a risk factor for pathologies of inferior limbs. Further studies would be necessary to confirm whether claw foot is associated with modifications of the posture or gait.…”

The Relation of Hallux Valgus Severity With Foot Function and Balance in Older Men

“…It is characterized by lateral drift of the great toe (2,3). Factors contributing to the formation of hallux valgus can be sorted as wearing high heeled shoes which narrows toe box, excessively long first metatarsals, round metatarsal heads, large intermetatarsal angle, first ray hypermobility, and pronated foot posture (4,5).…”

“…HV initially affects only the first MTP joint, but as the deformity progresses, the lateral displacement of the hallux interferes with the normal alignment and function of lesser toes, which results in hammer or claw toe deformation, altered weight-bearing patterns, and development of plantar keratotic lesions (5,12). Deformity of the great toe nail, splaying of the forefoot and problems with shoe fitting may also be observed.…”

Effects of Different Heel Heights on Plantar Foot Pressure Distribution of Older Women during Walking

“…Older women who wear high-heeled shoes have an 83% prevalence of foot problems and usually have more foot problems than younger women 2) . The main problems associated with high-heeled shoes are that they reduce balance and increase the risk of falling 3,4) .…”