Problems of Fashionable Shoes from the Viewpoint of Foot Pressure Distribution and EMG Analysis

Abstract

The fundamental role of shoes, apart from the obvious fashion aspect, is to protect the foot and support the foot function, i.e. the gait. In this aspect, we tried to verify problems of Thick-Sole Shoes (TSS) which have become fashionable among young women recently.
We conducted measurements of foot pressure distribution and EMGs of the lower leg, and observations of the gait figure for 7 young women in each case of walking barefoot, in sneakers and in TSS. Additionally, 250 young women were surveyed using a questionnaire form about their awareness of shoes.
When wearing TSS, the foot movement found in normal walking, i.e. landing on the heel then kicking with the toes, is prevented, and so shuffling is apt to occur. The weight point on the sole deviates toward the toe side significantly, and weight dispersion on the sole, one of the most important functions of shoes, is altered. Furthermore, the use of the gastrocnemius muscle increases remarkably.
Young women, when selecting shoes, tend to put design before function, and force themselves to wear fashionable shoes, despite the agony they may cause.
Based on the above results, it may be concluded that TSS are not preferable and a campaign for awareness and education about shoes to consumers is necessary in order to contribute to foot protection and healthy walking form.