Factors Influencing Foot Strength and Morphology

Image of a participant testing their toe grip strength with a custom measurement device. The particpiant's foot is on a wooden box and their toe is pulling on a rope connected to a luggage scale.

Foot morphology varies between individuals based on a range of internal and external factors that shape their foot structure throughout development and in response to physical demands. Anthropometric measures of the foot have been associated with foot function, foot arch dynamics and toe grip (toe flexion) strength demonstrating effects on the force-generating capacity of the structure and overall stability during walking and balance. This directly influences an individual’s risk of developing pain and movement problems, as well as their risk of injury due to falls. Previous research has demonstrated that factors such as race, age, and sex assigned at birth can impact an individual's foot morphology. However other factors that may influence foot morphology and toe grip strength include country of origin, geographical residence during childhood development, footwear habits, and pregnancy. This study aims to investigate how these additional factors affect foot morphology and strength.

This study is a collaboration between Virginia Tech, Duke Univserity, and Auburn University.

The study involves a short 20-30 minute visit to complete! You are eligible to particpate if you are between 2-85 years old, able to walk without an assistive device, can stand on one leg for atleast 10 seconds (eyes open).

If you are interested in participating, let us know by completing this form.