Why do we have to wear shoes outside?
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The Importance of Wearing Shoes Outside
Foot Health and Mobility
Wearing shoes outside is crucial for maintaining foot health and mobility. Footwear can significantly impact lower limb health, influencing the risk of foot pain, ulceration, and falls, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with medical conditions like diabetes. Proper footwear provides necessary support and protection, reducing the likelihood of injuries and complications.
Fall Prevention in Older Adults
Footwear plays a vital role in preventing falls, particularly among older adults. Falls are a significant concern as they can lead to severe injuries. Research indicates that walking barefoot or in socks indoors increases the risk of falls. Shoes with low heels and firm, slip-resistant soles are recommended to enhance balance and reduce the risk of slips and trips both indoors and outdoors. Therefore, wearing appropriate shoes can be an effective strategy for fall prevention.
Protection Against Environmental Hazards
Shoes offer protection against various environmental hazards encountered outdoors. They shield feet from sharp objects, rough surfaces, and extreme temperatures, which can cause injuries or infections. This protective function is especially important for individuals with conditions like peripheral neuropathy, where sensation in the feet is reduced, making them more susceptible to unnoticed injuries.
Socio-Demographic and Medical Influences on Footwear Choice
The choice of outdoor footwear is influenced by several socio-demographic and medical factors. Studies show that men are more likely to wear running shoes and boots, while women prefer thongs and sandals. Additionally, medical conditions such as arthritis and diabetes can dictate the type of footwear worn, with specific recommendations aimed at preventing complications like foot ulceration. Understanding these influences can help in promoting better footwear choices tailored to individual needs.
Conclusion
Wearing shoes outside is essential for protecting foot health, preventing falls, and safeguarding against environmental hazards. Proper footwear choices, influenced by socio-demographic and medical factors, can significantly enhance safety and mobility, particularly in vulnerable populations. Encouraging the use of appropriate shoes can lead to better health outcomes and a reduction in injury risks.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Independent factors associated with wearing different types of outdoor footwear in a representative inpatient population: a cross-sectional study
Footwear Characteristics and Risk of Indoor and Outdoor Falls in Older People
Optimizing footwear for older people at risk of falls.
Factors associated with wearing inadequate outdoor footwear in populations at risk of foot ulceration: A cross-sectional study
Special Recommendation Footwear for Older Peoples at Risk of Falling Injuries
Perceived risks for slipping and falling at work during wintertime and criteria for a slip-resistant winter shoe among Swedish outdoor workers
A survey exploring self-reported indoor and outdoor footwear habits, foot problems and fall status in people with stroke and Parkinson’s
Professional footwear evaluation for clinical nurses.
A Comparative Analysis of Shoes Designed for Subjects with Obesity Using a Single Inertial Sensor: Preliminary Results
Hallux valgus in pre-school-aged children: the effects of too-short shoes on the hallux angle and the effects of going barefoot on podiatric health
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