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Anthropometric Dimensions of Foot in Students
Roya Emamgholizadeh Minaei, Mohammad Hajaghazadeh, Teimour Allahyari, Hamidreza Khalkhali, Mansoor Keramat,
Volume 4, Issue 1 (6-2016)
Abstract

Introduction: Foot anthropometric dimensions could be useful in designing comfortable footwear. The objective of this study was the measurement of foot anthropometric dimensions in a group of students.

Methods: This was a descriptive study in which 21 dimensions of foot for 580 males and females were measured manually. To measure the foot dimensions, a digital caliper and a tape were used. The measured dimensions included the important lengths, widths, heights and girths of foot. Descriptive statistics such as percentiles, mean and standard deviation were calculated for the collected data. To test and survey of the mean of foot dimensions between males and females, statistics such as independent t-test and effect size (Cohen’s d) were used.

Results: The values of mean, standard deviation, the 5th, 50th, and 95th percentiles were calculate and tabulated for the total studied population and for gender. In all measured foot dimensions, males had bigger dimensions than females. Gender had different impacts on the measured foot dimensions. The mean of all foot dimensions was significantly different between males and females (P value = 0.001). Digital pattering of I and II were observed in 78% and 22% of the studied population, respectively.

Conclusions: In the present study, important anthropometric data of foot were collected for a group of students. The presented percentiles could be used in design of male and female shoes. Conducting similar studies in children with different age categories could help completion of the anthropometric database.


Barefoot Shoes and the Clinical Challenges of Their Use in Iran: A Qualitative Study from the Perspective of Retailers
Shafe Abbasi, Roghaye Lotfi Esfahanjegh, Farideh Babakhani,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Footwear for foot support is recognized as a product for managing musculoskeletal disorders, and prolonged use of inappropriate shoes can have negative health consequences. Despite the growing use of these shoes in Iran, there is limited evidence regarding the associated clinical and practical challenges. Examining the experiences of vendors can help identify barriers to the supply and use of this product and provide practical data to improve prescription practices, consumer education, and the quality of clinical care.

Methods: This qualitative, ergonomics-focused study examined the challenges and opportunities of using foot-supportive footwear in Iran from the perspective of vendors. Data were collected using a modified Anderson questionnaire, validated by three orthotics and prosthetics specialists, and completed by 10 vendors. Thematic analysis of the data highlighted the needs and challenges related to foot-supportive footwear in the Iranian market.

Results: Athletes, individuals with normal weight, and those with forefoot deformities report the highest satisfaction with foot-supportive footwear, whereas people with conditions such as severe flat feet or back pain without custom insoles face challenges. Additionally, foot scanning and the design of personalized insoles play a crucial role in improving comfort and reducing foot pain.

Conclusion: Foot-supportive footwear, when designed and used ergonomically, can improve the function of foot muscles. However, individuals with back pain, high arches, heel spurs, corns, or various types of blisters should use them with caution, as improper use may exacerbate pain and worsen clinical symptoms.

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