A influência do envelhecimento sobre a antropometria e a postura dos pés: um estudo longitudinal

Abstract

The foot and ankle joint complex comprising an adaptable to external and internal influences, being able to tolerate and compensate for deformities or misalignment of the lower limb. Shoes are an important addition to the human foot. However, if used improperly interfere in gait, cause pain and foot deformities. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of aging on the anthropometric and postural foot of the elderly, through Manuscript I. As well as pointing out the consequences and the factors associated with the use of inappropriate shoes for a period of four years, through the Manuscript II. For this purpose, 164 elderly patients with mean age of 73.7 (± 5.86) years were evaluated in 2006 and 2010, as the anthropometric and postural foot (Manuscript I), and asked about falls, shoe model used, pain during the use of footwear and options to buy it (Manuscript II). The paired t-test was used in the first study to point out possible differences in anthropometric variables over time. In the second study, subjects were classified among those who remained inadequate lengths of wearing shoes and those who remained using appropriate footwear, excluding the subjects who changed their behavior in the period in question. A multiple logistic regression model and the observations of the odds ratio evaluated the impact of independent variables in the classifications of this behavior. In all statistical tests, was considered a significance level of 5%. The results of study I showed a decrease of the angles of the first metatarsophalangeal joint and increase the values of arch index during the study period. The perimeters, heights and widths, and the postures of the feet showed no changes during the study period. The results of study II show that the foot length and males are the main factors associated with persistence of misuse of shoes over the years, and the shoes too long in relation to the feet of individuals. Other variables, such as falls, shoes models, pain, width, perimeter and height of the feet, or even the posture of the feet showed no association with this behavior. The study period may not have been enough to point out significant changes in other variables, and longer studies are needed to state the possible occurrence of these changes. Still, it is possible to ensure the importance of these findings for better understanding of the complex biomechanics of the feet of the elderly, planning strategies and guidelines for the elderly to help prevent the installation of deformities and limitations.