Static and dynamic plantar foot shape following long-term use of military boots

Abstract

Foot structure can be influenced by various factors, such as footwear, body weight and physical activity. A change in foot structure can alter shock absorption and force transition. The main objective of this study is to investigate the effect of the long-term use of military boots on foot shape parameters. Thirty military and thirty non-military subjects participated in this case-control study. All participants had been regularly wearing military boots for the past 12 years. After introducing the experiment, static and dynamic footprints were recorded via paper and ink while standing and walking. The footprints were analysed using ImageJ software to extract foot width indices, area indices, truncated arch index, footprint index and arch angle index. The findings indicated no significant difference in comparison static and dynamic variables in the military and non-military groups (p ≥ 0.05). However, there was a significant difference between the two groups in both static (midfoot area, arch index (AI), truncated arch index, footprint index and arch angle index) and dynamic (midfoot width, Staheli Index (SAI), truncated arch index and arch angle index) conditions, when static and dynamic variable were compared (p < 0.05). Findings revealed the military personnel have low arch, making them susceptible to musculoskeletal disorders. To mitigate this risk, it is recommended that military boots be reassessed or that insoles be used. Furthermore, it is suggested that military boots be limited to specific activities and fewer hours of usage to avoid potential health issues.