Survey highlights injury risk of poorly fitting footwear
Results from a new survey have revealed that, while more than half (58%) of adults in Nova Scotia, Canada, claim to walk or run three times a week, only a fifth have ever received a professional fitting for athletic shoes. According to experts, this leaves them open to the risk of serious and long-term injury.
The Nextbus survey was conducted in November and included a sample of 402 Nova Scotian adults.
"We were thrilled to hear so many Nova Scotians are active," said manager of Soles in Motion, the company that commissioned the survey, Rachel McMillan. "But if they're not wearing the proper footwear, they're at risk for serious injury that could keep them from being active and healthy."
Injuries that result from incorrect footwear can be short-term, such as blisters, in-grown toenails, ankle sprains and shin splints. However, there is also a risk of long-term damage including stress fractures, bunions and abnormal joint wear. Improper footwear includes shoes that are too small or do not provide correct support.
Only 2% of respondents said that they consider a health professional or salesperson's recommendation when buying athletic shoes. However, they did report that fit or comfort were the most important factors considered (78%). 23% of respondents listed price as a factor in their purchase decision.
