Gerontology, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: unknown, P. 1 - 2
Published: Dec. 23, 2024
This special article collection of Gerontology focuses on a highly prevalent, yet largely neglected issue: foot problems and footwear concerns among older people. Epidemiological studies demonstrate that are common in this age-group. Up to one three people report pain [1], has significant detrimental impact mobility [2], physical function [3], risk falls [4]. There is also evidence symptoms increase the early mortality [5]. Clearly, consequential require concerted research attention improve clinical outcomes [6]. Footwear extremely important, as there good many wear suboptimal [7], comfortable supportive plays key role maintaining independence quality life population [8].Age-related changes structure have been previously identified [9] may be partly responsible for some these problems. In collection, Reeves et al. [10] used 3D scanning technology characterise shape 374 women active court sports divided into 10 year age-groups, found had broader, flatter were more likely hallux valgus than their younger counterparts. information will help creation inclusive athletic designs who participate sport.This includes two important papers effects chronic musculoskeletal conditions [11, 12]. with rheumatoid arthritis, Stolt [11] lower extremity functional deficits highlight major difficulties carrying out usual hobbies, performing routine household activities, putting shoes/socks. Eltaraboulsi [12] conducted an analysis Johnston County Osteoarthritis Project reported 4% sample developed osteoarthritis over 3 period, 55% pre-existing demonstrated radiographic progression during short period time. Higher body mass index was associated both increased incident worse ankle outcome scores, highlighting importance healthy weight advancing age [13].This scoping reviews: health promotion models [14], focused orthoses balance [15]. These reviews simple interventions can effective improving footcare behaviours self-efficacy, potential preventing if adults appropriate footwear. However, substantially needed areas harmonise approaches address gaps our current understanding.The association between problems, footwear, further explored by [16, 17]. White [16] showed prevalent attending clinic, weakness being most condition, three-quarters wearing inappropriate potentially placing them at falls. The latter study video capture data, could contributor long-term aged care, socks particularly hazardous falling backwards [17].Finally, investigate whether specially designed [18, 19]. Finco [18] cross-over design show therapeutic reducing 12 week while Futrell [19] although minimally cushioned does not appear cross-sectional area intrinsic muscles, generally positive experiences, self-reported improvements awareness sensation when shoes worn. stated Soares [20], researchers need consider number steps recorded, least 320 required ensure familiarisation thin, moderate thick midsoles prescribed enhance comfort support population. We hope readers find issue interest useful practice, benefit from work but sometimes undervalued field.The authors no conflicts declare.This editorial supported any sponsor or funder.H.B.M. Y.M.G. contributed equally conceptualisation writing editorial.
Language: Английский