Below is a list of interesting facts about feet
- In a lifetime, the average person will walk more than three times around the earth (approximately 128,000km)
- There are 26 bones in each foot. When you add both feet together (52 bones), this accounts for a quarter of the bones in the human body
- There are 4 layers of muscles in the sole of the foot
- When running, the weight bearing forces through the foot and ankle can be up to 3 times body weight
- There is a strong genetic link for development of bunions (i.e. they run in families)
- There is a relationship between bunion size and arthritis in the big toe joint
- Bunions can lead to falls and balance problems in the elderly
- The cartilage in the big toe joint is only 1mm thick - be careful to avoid stubbing your toe!
- There is a strong correlation between being overweight and developing heel pain
- Tight calf muscles can have a significant impact on heel pain
- A 2½-inch high heel can increase the load on the forefoot by 75%
- When you wear high heels for a prolonged period of time, it can shorten your calf muscle and increase forefoot pain when you walk in flat shoes!
- Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower-limb amputation
- Every 30 seconds, a limb is lost to diabetes complications
- In people with diabetes, after a major amputation, 50% of patients will have their other limb amputated within 2 years
- Smoking is a significant risk factor for bone and wound healing problems