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Safety Footwear Impact on Workers’ Gait and Foot Problems: A Comparative Study

Authors :
Alberto Arceri
Antonio Mazzotti
Sofia Gaia Liosi
Simone Ottavio Zielli
Elena Artioli
Laura Langone
Francesco Traina
Lorenzo Brognara
Cesare Faldini
Source :
Clinics and Practice, Vol 14, Iss 4, Pp 1496-1506 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2024.

Abstract

Background: In this study, we hypothesized that safety footwear (SF) impacts gait patterns, potentially contributing to the podiatric symptoms reported by workers. The purpose of this work was to compare the gait analyses of workers wearing SF and sneakers using inertial sensors while also examining the occurrence of foot problems. Methods: A consecutive cohort of workers from different occupational sectors who wore SF during their work shifts were prospectively assessed through a gait analysis. The gait analysis was conducted under two conditions: first, while wearing SF, and second, while wearing sneakers. In both conditions, inertial sensors were used (Wiva® MOB). Participants also underwent a podiatric physical examination to evaluate foot problems. Results: This study shows that SF resulted in a worsening gait pattern compared to sneakers in both genders. The impact was particularly pronounced in female participants, resulting in a significant decline in walking speed and cadence. Discomfort was reported by 83.3% of participants, with a higher prevalence in females (46.6% vs. 36.6%). The SF group exhibited an elevated prevalence of foot problems, with no significant gender variations. It seems that foot problems are more likely to occur when a foot deformity, such as flat or cavus foot or hallux valgus, is present. Conclusions: This study suggests that SF may contribute to the reported podiatric symptoms among workers. Certain footwear characteristics, including weight, mis-fit, and inadequate design, may be factors associated with footwear discomfort and adverse gait patterns, potentially leading to increased foot problems among workers.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20397283
Volume :
14
Issue :
4
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Clinics and Practice
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.9ba02cb5a36e406ebd38663336ceff9f
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract14040120