Relationship between Footwear Fitting and Foot Shape of Primary School Children in South Eastern, Nigeria

Ihegihu EYN, Igbonekwu TU, Ihegihu CC, Afolabi TO, Onyejike DN and Doluwamu WA

Published on: 2024-07-17

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the relationship between footwear fitting and foot shape of primary school children.

Methodology: This study used an ex post facto design to examine 53 8-year-old primary school children in Umuchiana. Measurements included body height, weight, footwear dimensions, and foot structure. Sex differences were assessed using the Mann–Whitney U test, and the right and left feet were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Regression analysis was used to evaluate the impact of footwear on foot shape.

Results: Significant sex differences were observed in foot and footwear parameters, with males showing higher mean ranks for left and right foot widths. Significant differences were also observed in the Wejsflog Index, right hallux valgus angle, left Clarke’s angle, and functional width excess. Comparisons between right and left foot parameters revealed significant differences in foot width and functional length excess. Significant negative correlations were observed between foot width and functional width excess for both feet, while positive correlations were observed between the Wejsflog Index and functional width excess on both sides.

Discussion: Significant sex differences were observed in foot dimensions and footwear fitting among primary school children, highlighting the need for sex-specific considerations in footwear design to ensure proper fit and support.