Skin and nail lesions in the feet and toe deformities often occur during childhood; however, medical and educational institutions have performed only a few large-scale investigations regarding foot and toe deformities. To reveal the abnormal findings, symptoms, and lifestyle habits of elementary school students, a web questionnaire was administered to the students and parents in some elementary schools, collaborating with the Sokuiku Laboratory and Japan Organization of Clinical Dermatologists. Overall, 575 responses were obtained. Approximately 20% of the participants answered, “there are toe deformities” the percentage increased in the upper grades. “Parents do nail clippers” decreased in middle and upper grades. Of the participants, >50% answered, “they do not have enough time to exercise.” Compared to the previous survey results, this present survey results showed a lower rate of toe deformities and motor function abnormalities. Because abnormal findings may not be found at home, regular measurements at school are necessary for accurate investigation. It is well known that a lack of exercise in school children leads to poor motor function development. Considering that problems with foot deformities, lower limb function, and toenails are linked to declined lower limb function, for healthy growth and development in early childhood and prevention of locomotive syndrome in middle and old age, it is recommended that, besides exercise instruction, school health education should include foot education, such as instructions on foot care and shoes, starting in the early elementary school grades, and foot measurements should be added to musculoskeletal health examinations.
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