WEARING WRONG SHOES CAN MAKE YOU ANXIOUS

A study by the University of A Coruña reveals people who wear the ‘wrong shoes’ – whether that’s the incorrect size or if they cause pain – suffer, among other things, anxiety, apathy, loss of balance and falls. Daniel López López, a scientist at the University of A Coruña in Spain, explains that over time the foot can increase in width and length; there can also be loss of muscle mass and fatty tissue on the feet. The study showed that people who use the wrong fitting shoes can have a lower quality of life in all areas related to pain, foot function, footwear, food health, general health, physical activity, social capacity and vitality. The most common disorders are foot bone deformities, bunions, toenail malformations, plantar keratosis and flat feet. “This often leads to chronic pain, infections, limited mobility when walking, anxiety, apathy, social disturbances, changes to pressure distribution in feet related to loss of balance and falls, which as a result negatively impact upon health, independence and wellbeing,” says López. Fortunately, shoe brands are starting to invest heavily in shoes that feel good as well as look good. The ECCO Shape collection is designed for people who expect comfort from their formal shoes, and who are looking for heels with a versatile aesthetic. The ECCO Shape collection has a unique, anatomical design that follows the contours of the foot, delivering stability and confidence. A moulded midsole formed with advanced soft polymers adds cushioning and rebound, while an anatomical last ensures the whole foot is in natural motion.