THE average Brit has two pairs of trainers, typically spending £45.50 on each. But it seems many don’t make enough effort to ensure they fit, according to a new study from The College of Podiatry.
The research, commissioned to mark the foot health awareness campaign Feet for Life month, contained feedback from 2000 UK adults and revealed that only only 19% had a proper fitting before buying and 33% bought online without trying them on beforehand at all.
Experts say it partly explains why 10% of those questioned had to be treated by their GP for injuries while 4% had to get treatment at hospital and another 4% paid for private treatment.
“We are seeing increasing numbers of people reporting to us with more musculoskeletal problems that could be avoided with the right footwear advice,” said Matt Fitzpatrick, consultant podiatrist at The College of Podiatry. “Wearing uncomfortable or poorly fitted trainers can leave you with nerve damage (neuromas), as well as other soft-tissue strains and blisters. With so many people running we could be facing an epidemic of heel and arch pain due to inherent pathomechanics, changes in the normal function of a joint, that need to be addressed and supported appropriately.”