Foot strength and stiffness are related to footwear use in a comparison of minimally- vs. conventionally-shod populations.

ABSTRACT: The longitudinal arch (LA) helps stiffen the foot during walking, but many people in developed countries suffer from flat foot, a condition characterized by reduced LA stiffness that can impair gait. Studies have found this condition is rare in people who are habitually barefoot or wear minimal shoes compared to people who wear conventional modern shoes, but the basis for this difference remains unknown. Here we test the hypothesis that the use of shoes with features that restrict foot motion (e.g. arch supports, toe boxes) is associated with weaker foot muscles and reduced foot stiffness. We collected data from minimally-shod men from northwestern Mexico and men from urban/suburban areas in the United States who wear 'conventional' shoes. We measured dynamic LA stiffness during walking us

SUBMITTER: Holowka NB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5829167 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature