Effects of Biomimetic Shoes on Healthy Young Children's Gait / Efeitos do uso de calçado biomimético na marcha de crianças típicas

Abstract Objective To compare the spatial-temporal parameters and walking kinematics of toddlers wearing biomimetic shoes, regular shoes (daily use owned shoes), and barefoot. Methods Spatial-temporal parameters (speed, step length, and stride width), the mean vertical displacement of the center of mass (COM), knee flexion peak, and maximal foot height were analyzed. Results Children were not different in biomimetic shoes and barefoot conditions on speed, step length, and COM vertical displacement. There was no difference among conditions on stride width and foot height. The knee flexion peak was greater in shod conditions than barefoot. The regular shoes showed greater COM vertical displacement than biomimetic shoes and barefoot. Conclusion The findings showed that shoes affected the walking pattern in young children, but a shoe with a biomimetic design had a lesser effect on the walking pattern.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo deste trabalho foi comparar os parâmetros espaço temporais e cinemáticos da marcha de crianças típicas em três condições: descalças, usando calçados biomiméticos e, calçados de uso diário (não biomiméticos - próprios das crianças). Métodos Foram analisadas variáveis espaço temporais (velocidade, comprimento e largura da passada), deslocamento vertical do centro de massa (CM), pico de flexão do joelho e altura máxima do pé, coletados via avaliação tridimensional do movimento. Resultados Comparado com a condição descalça, o uso do calçado biomimético não foi estatisticamente diferente em relação a velocidade da marcha, comprimento da passada e altura do pé. A largura da passada e a altura do pé não foi diferente estatisticamente entre as condições estudadas. O pico de flexão do joelho foi maior nas condições com calçados comparado a condição descalça. Os calçados de uso diário apresentaram maior deslocamento vertical do COM do que nas condições com o calçado biomimético e descalço. Conclusão Os achados deste trabalho reafirmam que o uso do calçado influencia a marcha de crianças, especificamente na fase de desenvolvimento da marcha mas, que calçados com um design biomimético tem menores impactos no padrão de marcha das crianças.

Effect of minimalist shoes on foot muscle morphology:systematic evaluation and Meta-analysis / 中国组织工程研究

OBJECTIVE:With the popularity of simulated barefoot running,minimalist shoes have become a new way of foot exercise.As an important muscle group of the foot,the maintenance of foot muscle morphology is important for the execution of foot functions.In this paper,by combing the literature about the effect of minimalist shoes on foot muscle morphology in recent years,we systematically evaluate the effect of minimalist shoes on foot muscle morphology compared with traditional running shoes. METHODS:The relevant articles published from 2012 to 2022 were searched in Chinese and English databases(PubMed,Web of Science,ProQuest,CNKI and WanFang databases)with"minimal shoes,minimal footwear,minimalist shoes,minimalist footwear,foot muscle,feet muscle"as Chinese and English keywords,respectively.Meta-analysis,sensitivity tests were performed on the included literature using Review Manager 5.4.1 and Stata 14 software,the Egger method was used to test for publication bias in the literature,and Meta-regression was used to identify the subgroups with heterogeneity. RESULTS:Compared with traditional running shoes,minimalist shoes increased muscle circumference of the abductor hallucis[standardized mean difference=2.034,95%confidence interval(1.192,2.877),Z=4.73,P＜0.001].And the results were not reversed after clipping and patching,with a more robust combined effect size(P＜0.05).For the toe short flexors,the total combined effect size did not show a difference between traditional running shoes and minimalist shoes[standardized mean difference=0.470,95%confidence interval(-0.45,1.39),Z=1.00,P=0.318]. CONCLUSION:Compared with traditional running shoes,minimalist shoes intervention can effectively improve muscle circumference of the abductor hallucis,but the promoting effect on the flexor digitorum brevis muscle is not obvious.Running in minimalist shoes has positive implications for the maintenance of the medial longitudinal arch,but it is necessary to enrich the research content of minimalist shoes on different foot muscles and different populations in order to further explore the mechanisms by which minimalist shoe interventions promote foot function.

Visualization of the biomechanical characteristics of long-distance running landing patterns / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND:In recent years,as the popularity of long-distance fitness running continues to rise,more research progress has been made on related scientific issues.Among them,the landing pattern of long-distance running is an important biomechanical research hotspot at the level of running technique. OBJECTIVE:Using CiteSpace to visualize and analyze the relevant literature,the article sorts through the last decade's literature on the subject to identify the current state,hot spots,and trends in the footprint as well as to further discuss the main research hotspots of the foot strike pattern from a biomechanical perspective. METHODS:"Foot strike pattern,""Rearfoot strike,""non-Rearfoot strike,""Forefoot strike"and"Midfoot strike"were used as keywords to search the Web of Science Core Collection database. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:A total of 896 relevant papers were finally included.The number of articles published in a year showed an overall upward trend.The top three countries in terms of the number of publications were the United States,China and the United Kingdom;the top three institutions were Harvard University,Shanghai University of Sports and the University of Massachusetts;and the top three authors were Davis Irene S,Hamill Joseph and Fu Weijie.The keywords"barefoot running,runner,injury,footing pattern,kinesiology"appear more frequently,and the keyword clusters include"energy cost,loading rate,footing pattern,risk factors,gait analysis",and the relevant research still continues to be hot to this day.After analyzing the above data in detail,we found that the overall research intensity of foot strike pattern has remained stable in recent years,and the hotspot mainly focuses on the biomechanical research of foot strike pattern;the trend of this kind of research focuses on the influence and adaptability of different strike patterns(forefoot strike and rearfoot strike)on long-distance runners(barefoot,shoes,distance,speed,injury risk,running economy and energy consumption,etc.).Therefore,there is no"standardized optimal landing,"but there may be"individualized optimal landings."It is suggested that researchers should select the optimal landing pattern and running technique strategy according to their own habitual way,movement pattern characteristics,exercise level and task attributes.

Effects of stepping exercise with single-tooth sandals on medial longitudinal arch and sole surface temperature / 体力科学

Single-tooth sandals under new development have special material and shape characteristics. Exercises with single-tooth sandals can increase pressing stimulus on the soles of the feet, thereby suppressing a decline in medial longitudinal arch and elevating sole surface temperature. This study thus aimed to examine the effects of exercise with single-tooth sandals on medial longitudinal arch and sole surface temperature. Sixteen young adults (23 ± 5 years) participated in 20 min of stepping exercise on the spot. They randomly put on a regular normal sandal (N conditions) or a single-tooth sandal (Z conditions) on each left and right side. Before and after exercise, medial longitudinal arch and sole surface temperature were assessed by digital caliper and straightedge and thermography, respectively. No significant differences in baseline parameters were observed between N and Z conditions. After exercise, arch height and arch height ratio significantly reduced in N conditions, but not in Z conditions. Central sole surface temperature in Z conditions also increased significantly, and the changes in surface temperature were significantly higher in Z conditions than in N conditions. Therefore, these findings suggest that exercise with single-tooth sandals has a positive effect on a suppressing decline in medial longitudinal arch and an elevation in sole surface temperature.

A escolha do calçado por corredores amadores: caracterização e associação com o histórico de lesão auto reportada / La elección del calzado por los corredores aficionados: caracterización y asociación con el historial de lesiones autoinformado / Selection of running shoes by amateur runners: characterization and association with the self-reported history of injury

RESUMO O calçado é um elemento importante para a prática de corrida. As evidências sobre os impactos das características do calçado e de sua prescrição nas lesões de corredores são restritas. Dessa forma, os objetivos deste estudo foram investigar o processo de escolha do calçado por corredores e verificar se variáveis relacionadas ao calçado e seu processo de escolha estavam associadas à presença e recorrência de lesão no último ano. Foi realizado um estudo observacional com 254 corredores que responderam um questionário autoadministrado sobre características demográficas, a prática esportiva, o calçado e o processo de sua escolha, e lesões ocorridas nos últimos 12 meses. O teste qui-quadrado foi empregado para verificar se havia diferença na distribuição das respostas de cada questão, enquanto o teste de regressão logística para verificar se as variáveis relacionadas ao calçado e ao processo de escolha predizem a presença e recorrência de lesão no último ano. Os resultados indicaram que a maioria dos corredores possui tênis específico para a prática esportiva e considera algumas características ao adquiri-lo, como o amortecimento intermediário e a diferença na altura do solado entre a parte posterior e a anterior de aproximadamente 10mm. A maioria indica conhecer seu tipo de pisada, mas não a considera na escolha do calçado. Além disso, a maioria não usa palmilha e não recebeu orientação para a escolha do calçado. O modelo obtido com a regressão não foi significativo. Assim, apesar de os corredores considerarem as características do calçado ao adquiri-lo, essas características e o processo de escolha não foram associados à presença e recorrência de lesão nos últimos 12 meses.

RESUMEN El calzado es un elemento importante para la práctica deportiva de carrera. Sin embargo, es limitada la evidencia sobre los impactos de las características del calzado deportivo y su prescripción sobre las lesiones en los corredores. Por lo tanto, los objetivos de este estudio fueron investigar el proceso de elección de calzado por los corredores y verificar si las variables relacionadas con el calzado y su proceso de elección se asociaron con la presencia y recurrencia de lesiones en el último año. Se realizó un estudio observacional con 254 corredores que respondieron un cuestionario autoinformado sobre las características demográficas, la práctica deportiva, el calzado y el proceso de elección, y las lesiones que se llevaron a cabo en los últimos 12 meses. La prueba de chi-cuadrado se aplicó para verificar la existencia de diferencias en la distribución de respuestas para cada pregunta. Y se utilizó la prueba de regresión logística para determinar si las variables relacionadas con el calzado y su proceso de elección pueden predecir la presencia y recurrencia de lesiones en el último año. Los resultados indicaron que la mayoría de los corredores tienen zapatillas adecuadas para hacer deporte y consideran algunas características a la hora de adquirirlas, como una amortiguación intermedia y la diferencia de altura de la suela entre la parte delantera y la trasera de aproximadamente 10mm. La mayoría afirma conocer el tipo de paso, pero no lo considera a la hora de elegir el calzado. Además, la mayoría no utiliza plantillas y no recibe orientación sobre la elección del calzado. El modelo que se obtuvo con la regresión no fue significativo. Por lo tanto, aunque los corredores tienen en cuenta las características del calzado a la hora de adquirirlo, esas características y el proceso de elección no se asociaron con la presencia y recurrencia de lesión en los últimos 12 meses.

ABSTRACT Running shoes are an essential element for sports practice. Evidence on the effect of the shoe characteristics and prescription in running injuries are scarce. Thus, this study aimed to investigate runners's process of choosing running shoes and to verify whether the variables related to running shoes and their selection process are associated with the presence and recurrence of injuries in the previous year. An observational study was conducted with 254 runners who answered a self-reported questionnaire about demographics, sports practice, shoe characteristics and selection criteria, and injuries in the last 12 months. The chi-square test evaluated whether there was a difference in the distribution of answers to each question. The logistic regression evaluated whether the variables related to shoes and selection criteria predicted injury's presence and recurrence in the previous year. The results showed that most runners had specific shoes for sports practice and considered some characteristics of the shoes to choose them, including intermediate cushioning and a difference in the heel-to-toe drop of approximately 10mm. Most respondents indicated knowing their foot type but not considering it when choosing shoes. Besides, most individuals did not use foot orthotics and did not receive guidance to select their shoes. The model obtained with the regression was not significant. Therefore, despite considering shoe characteristics when choosing it, these features and the selection criteria were not associated with the presence and recurrence of injuries in the previous 12 months.

The effects of high heeled shoes walking in on energy expenditure and oxygen consumption in healthy young female

Background: Walking in high-heeled shoes is widespread dress behavior of women of modern society. It increases lower limb muscles activity and energy cost. The need to generate larger muscular forces during walking increases the metabolic demand, thus oxygen consumption (VO2) is increased when wearing high heels. Aims and Objectives: To access effect of high-heeled shoes on Energy Expenditure (EE) and VO2 in Healthy Young female. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among fifty apparently healthy female students between the ages of 20 and 26 yrs. Resting arterial blood pressure and heart rate (HR), VO2, heat production, and EE were recorded. Then, subjects walked barefooted a distance of 76.5 meters in 2 min. Following the barefooted walk, cardiac and metabolic parameter were recorded again. The subjects walked 76.5 meters in high-heeled shoes of 2, 4, and 6 inches. These parameters were recorded immediately after 76.5 meters of walking in high-heeled shoes. Results: The results from the present study indicate that walking a distance of 76.5 meters barefooted resulted in a significant increase only in mean arterial pressure, HR and rate pressure product. The EE and VO2 after walking a distance of 76.5 meters in high-heeled shoes of 2, 4, and 6 inches heel heights was significantly higher than walking a distance of 76.5 meters barefooted. Conclusion: Walking barefooted required lesser effort than walking in high-heeled shoes of different heel heights. Effort should therefore be made to encourage women to reconsider the habitual use of high-heeled shoes.

The Influence of the Shoe over the Medial Foot Arch and the Lower Limbs Kinematics in Toddlers / A influência de calçados no arco longitudinal medial do pé e na cinemática dos membros inferiores de crianças no início da fase de aquisição de marcha

Abstract Objective To evaluate the biomechanical behavior of the medial longitudinal arch (MLA) of the foot and the kinematic parameters of the lower limbs with biomimetic footwear (BF) and non-biomimetic (NB1, NB2, NB3 and NB4) footwear in children at the beginning of the gait acquisition phase. Methods Four toddlers were evaluated at the beginning of the gait acquisition phase under the following conditions: walking barefoot, ambulation with BF and NB1, NB2, NB3 and NB4 footwear in hard floor. BF is described as biomimetic because of its property of emulating natural and irregular floors through a dynamic internal insole. The MLA and kinematics of the hip, knee, and ankle during gait were evaluated by three-dimensional motion analysis system. The similarity between the kinematic curves of barefoot and footwear conditions was analyzed by root mean square error (RMSE). Results The use of BF presented the highest magnitude of MLA and the greatest difference in relation to barefoot condition (higher RMSE). The BF showed less difference in the kinematics of the knee and ankle joints during gait when compared to barefoot condition (lower RMSE). NB2 footwear presented hip kinematics more similar to barefoot condition (lower RMSE). Conclusion Biomimetics footwear and NB2 shoes (both with wider forefoot region) generated smaller differences in lower limbs compared to barefoot. In addition, the MLA was higher in the BF, probably because different design from other shoes.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar o comportamento do arco longitudinal medial do pé (ALM) e os parâmetros cinemáticos dos membros inferiores durante a deambulação com calçados biomiméticos (CBs) e não biomiméticos (NB1, NB2, NB3 e NB4) em crianças no início da fase de aquisição da marcha. Métodos Foram avaliadas quatro crianças no início da fase de aquisição da marcha nas seguintes condições: andar descalço, andar com CBs e calçados NB1, NB2, NB3 e NB4 em solo plano. O calçado biomimético é descrito como biomimético por emular pisos naturais e irregulares por meio de uma palmilha interna dinâmica. O ALM e a cinemática do quadril, joelho e tornozelo durante a marcha foram avaliados por meio de sistema de análise do movimento tridimensional. A similaridade entre as curvas cinemáticas das condições descalça e com calçado foi analisada por meio do cálculo de root mean square error (RMSE). Resultados O CB foi o que apresentou maior magnitude do ALM e maior diferença do ALM em relação à condição descalça (maior RMSE). O CB apresentou ainda menor diferença na cinemática das articulações do joelho e tornozelo durante a marcha quando comparado à condição descalça (menor RMSE). O calçado NB2 apresentou a cinemática do quadril mais semelhante à condição descalça (menor RMSE). Conclusão Os calçados CB e NB2 que apresentam a região do antepé mais larga geraram menores diferenças na cinemática dos membros inferiores. Além disso, o ALM foi maior no CB provavelmente devido a seu design ser diferente daquele dos demais calçados.

O universo do futebol, a seleção brasileira e a nação: reflexões sobre a ascensão e queda da "pátria de chuteiras" / The universe of football, the Brazilian National team, and the nation: reflections on the rise and fall of the "country in soccer shoes" / El universo del fútbol, la selección brasileña y la nación: reflexiones sobre el ascenso y la caída de la "patria de botines"

Introdução: As reflexões de Arno Vogel no livro Universo do futebol, são primordiais para entendermos os significados das derrotas e conquistas da seleção brasileira em copas do mundo. A derrota em 1950 e o tricampeonato em 1970 foram sentidas como derrota e vitória de projetos de nação. A seleção gerava sentimentos antagônicos de tragédia e carnaval, de pessimismo e ufanismo. Objetivos: Neste artigo dissertaremos sobre o esmaecimento da equação futebol-nação a partir dos anos 1990. O período das Copas de 1994 a 2002 é primordial, já que a seleção conseguiu um feito inédito de participar de três finais consecutivas, tendo vencido duas e se consagrado pentacampeã do mundo. Outro momento relevante é o mundial de 2014, realizado no brasil, ocasião em que a seleção perdeu de 7 a 1 para a equipe da Alemanha nas semifinais, bem como a Copa de 2018. Metodologia: O corpus da análise é composto por material coletado nos jornais de circulação nacional O Globo e Folha de São Paulo sobre a participação da seleção brasileira masculina de futebol em Copas do Mundo dos jornais. Considerações provisórias: As narrativas jornalísticas já não tratam o futebol como metonímia da nação. As conquistas de 1994 e de 2002 e a derrota na final de 1998, não transcenderam o universo esportivo. A derrota por 7 a 1 para a Alemanha em 2014 gerou memes, que evidenciavam que a identidade nacional não tinha sido afetada. Em 2018, a eliminação para a Bélgica gerou narrativas de ordem técnica.

Introduction: Arno Vogel's reflections in the book Universo do Futebol are essential to understand the meaning of the defeats and victories of the Brazilian national team in the World Cups. The defeat of 1950 and the three-time championship of 1970 were felt like defeat and victory of national projects. The national team generated antagonistic feelings of tragedy and carnival, of pessimism and exacerbated patriotism. Objectives: In this article, we will talk about the fading of the soccer-nation equation starting in the 1990s. The period of the World Cups from 1994 to 2002 is pivotal, as the team achieved an unprecedented feat by participating in three finals consecutive, having won two and became five-time world champion. Another relevant moment is the 2014 World Cup, hosted in Brazil, when the team lost 7-1 to the German team in the semi-finals, as well as the 2018 World Cup. Methodology: The corpus of the analysis consists of material collected in the newspapers O Globo and Folha de São Paulo on the participation of the Brazilian national team in the World Cups. Temporary Considerations: journalistic narratives no longer treat soccer as a metonym of the nation. The achievements of 1994 and 2002 and the defeat in the 1998 final did not transcend the sports universe. The 7-1 loss to Germany in 2014 generated memes that showed that the national identity had not been affected. In 2018, the elimination against Belgium generated narratives of a technical nature.

Introducción: Las reflexiones de Arno Vogel en el libro Universo do Futebol son fundamentales para que entendamos el significado de las derrotas y conquistas de la selección brasileña de fútbol en los mundiales. La derrota de 1950 y el tricampeonato de 1970 se sintieron como derrota y victoria de proyectos nacionales. La selección generaba sentimientos antagónicos de tragedia y carnaval, de pesimismo y patriotismo exacerbado. Objetivos: En este artículo, hablaremos sobre el desvanecimiento de la ecuación fútbol-nación a partir de la década de 1990. El período de los Mundiales de 1994 a 2002 es fundamental, ya que el equipo logró una hazaña sin precedentes al participar en tres finales consecutivas, habiendo ganado dos y se consagró pentacampeón del mundo. Otro momento relevante es el Mundial de 2014, organizado en Brasil, cuando el equipo perdió por 7-1 ante la selección alemana en las semifinales, así como el Mundial de 2018. Metodología: El corpus del análisis consiste en material recolectado en los periódicos O Globo y Folha de São Paulo sobre la participación de la selección brasileña de fútbol en los Mundiales. Consideraciones provisorias: las narrativas periodísticas ya no tratan al fútbol como metonimia de la nación. Los logros de 1994 y 2002 y la derrota en la final de 1998 no trascendieron el universo deportivo. La derrota por 7-1 ante Alemania en 2014 generó memes que demostraron que la identidad nacional no había sido afectada. En 2018, la eliminación ante Bélgica generó narrativas de carácter técnico.

Influence of unstable shoes on women with lumbopelvic postpartum pain: randomized clinical trial

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Back pain is a normal symptom during pregnancy and is expected to become worse beyond the first three months after childbirth. OBJECTIVES: To determine the effectiveness of wearing unstable shoes instead of conventional shoes, regarding pain intensity, low back mobility and stability, among women with lumbopelvic pain (LPP) during the postpartum period. DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective, single-blinded, randomized clinical trial conducted at a podiatry and physiotherapy clinical center. METHODS: A nine-week program of wearing either unstable shoes (A) or conventional shoes (B) was implemented. The following outcomes were measured in three assessments: pain intensity, using a visual analogue scale (VAS); low-back mobility, using a modified Schober test; and stability, using a pressure platform. RESULTS: The lateral stability speed, anterior stability speed and anterior center of pressure (COP) showed significant (P < 0.05) decreases in the unstable shoes group after nine weeks, in relation to the conventional group. Intra-group measurements showed significant differences (P < 0.05) in VAS between the second and third assessments and between the first and third assessments in both groups. Intra-group evaluations also showed statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) in the lateral stability speed and anterior stability speed. CONCLUSIONS: Unstable shoes were effective in decreasing the pain intensity at five and nine weeks in women with postpartum LPP. In addition, their use produced decreases in lateral stability speed, anterior stability speed and anterior COP at nine weeks.

Effects of Shoe Type and Walking Speed on Knee Joint Loads / 医用生物力学

Objective To investigate the effects of shoes type (barefoot, ordinary running shoes, minimalist shoes) and walking speed (jogging, walking at normal speed) on biomechanical parameters of knee joint, so as to provide theoretical reference for scientific fitness. Methods Vicon three-dimensional （3D） motion capture system and Kistler 3D force plate were used to collect biomechanical parameters of lower limbs from 10 subjects during walking at different speed with different shoes. Two-way (2 walking conditions × 3 shoe conditions) repeated measures analysis of variance was used to statistically analyze each dependent variable. Results Compared with jogging, the lateral excursion of plantar center of pressure (COP) was greater, the moment arm in frontal plane, the adduction moment and peak loading rate of knee joint were smaller, but the angular impulse of knee joint in frontal plane was greater. Compared with ordinary running shoes, the stride length was decreased, the lateral excursion of COP was greater, and the moment arm of knee joint in frontal plane, the knee adduction moment, the peak load rate and the angular impulse of knee joint in frontal plane were smaller. Conclusions In order to reduce the angular impulse and peak loading rate of knee joint in frontal plane, it is recommended to jog with small strides for ordinary people with minimalist footwear.

Footwear designed to enhance energy return improves running economy compared to a minimalist footwear: does it matter for running performance?

The present study compared the effects of a footwear designed to enhance energy return (thermoplastic polyurethane, TPU) vs minimalist shoes on running economy (RE) and endurance performance. In this counterbalanced and crossover design study, 11 recreational male runners performed two submaximal constant-speed running tests and two 3-km time-trials with the two shoe models. Oxygen uptake was measured during submaximal constant-speed running tests in order to determine the RE at 12 km/h and oxygen cost of running (CTO2) at individual average speed sustained during the 3-km running time-trials wearing either of the two shoes. Our results revealed that RE was improved (2.4%) with TPU shoes compared with minimalist shoes (P=0.01). However, there was no significant difference for CTO2 (P=0.61) and running performance (P=0.52) comparing the TPU (710±60 s) and the minimalist (718±63 s) shoe models. These novel findings demonstrate that shoes with enhanced mechanical energy return (i.e. TPU) produced a lower energy cost of running at low (i.e., 12 km/h) but not at high speeds (i.e., average speed sustained during the 3-km running time-trial, ∼15 km/h), ultimately resulting in similar running performance compared to the minimalist shoe.

Absenteeism and associated factors: a study addressing the workers from a footwear manufacturer / Ausentismo y factores asociados: estudio con trabajadores en una industria del calzado / Absenteísmo e fatores associados: estudo com trabalhadores de uma indústria calçadista

ABSTRACT Objectives: To characterize absenteeism among the workers of a footwear manufacturer and analyze associated factors. Method: This quantitative and cross-sectional study addressed 572 workers from a footwear company located in southern Brazil, totaling 1,902 sick leaves in 2017. Analyses considered absolute and relative frequencies, and univariate and multivariate Poisson regression models were performed. Results: Most workers taking a leave from work were women with a job position in the operational sector to accompany a family member to attend a medical appointment or take exams. In the multivariate analysis, the following variables appeared associated with leaves longer than three days: being ≥ 50 years older, working in the Production Support sector, working in the company from 16 to 20 years, and nine groups of diseases (ICD-10). Conclusion: The findings contribute to understanding this industry's absenteeism profile, supporting strategies to promote positive economic and social impact, and promote adequate occupational health and safety.

RESUMEN Objetivos: Caracterizar el absentismo de los trabajadores en una industria en el sector del calzado y analizar los factores asociados con el tiempo de ausencia de los trabajadores. Método: Se trata de un estudio cuantitativo y transversal realizado con572 trabajadores del calzado en el sur de Brasil que tuvieron 1902 eventos de abandono en 2017. Los análisis se realizaron tanto por frecuencias absolutas como relativas y utilizando el modelo de regresión de Poisson univariado y multivariado. Resultados: Predominio femenino; sector operativo y cargo; certificados médicos y motivos de ausencia por seguimiento familiar, consultas y reconocimientos. En el análisis multivariado, mantuvieron asociación con más de tres días de ausencia: edad ≥ 50 años, sector de Apoyo a la Producción y tiempo de trabajo en la empresa de 16 a 20 años, además de nueve grupos de enfermedades de la ICD-10. Conclusión: Tales hallazgos contribuyen a la comprensión del perfil de absentismo de la industria, favoreciendo la planificación de estrategias asertivas a los impactos económicos y sociales y la asistencia adecuada a la salud y seguridad de los trabajadores.

RESUMO Objetivos: Caracterizar o absenteísmo de trabalhadores de uma indústria do setor calçadista e analisar fatores associados com o tempo de afastamento dos trabalhadores. Método: Trata-se de um estudo quantitativo e transversal com 572 trabalhadores calçadistas do Sul do Brasil que tiveram 1902 eventos de afastamento no ano de 2017. As analises foram realizadas tanto por frequências absolutas e relativas, quanto usando o modelo de Regressão de Poisson univariada e multivariada. Resultados: Predomínio do sexo feminino; de setor e cargo operacionais; de atestados médicos e de motivos de afastamento por acompanhamento familiar, consultas e exames. Na análise multivariada, mantiveram associação com mais de três dias de afastamento: idade ≥ 50 anos, setor Apoio à Produção e tempo de trabalho na empresa de 16 a 20 anos, além de nove grupos de doenças do CID-10. Conclusão: Os achados contribuem na compreensão do perfil de absenteísmo da indústria, favorecendo o planejamento de estratégias assertivas aos impactos econômicos e sociais e adequada assistência à saúde e segurança do trabalhador.

Effects of Gait Retraining on Impact Forces, Lower Limb Biomechanics and Leg Stiffness / 医用生物力学

Objective By establishing the intervention mode of 12-week gait retraining (GR) (with the specific aim of changing the habitual running gait), to determine the changes of vertical ground reaction force (vGRF), kinematics and dynamics of hip, knee, ankle joints, as well as stiffness of lower limbs in running before and after GR, and to explore the influence of running posture transformation on impact force and lower limb biomechanics. Methods Vicon motion capture system and Kistler 3D force measurement platform were used to collect the GRF and marker track of 30 runners (15 in experimental group and 15 in control group) before and after GR with the minimalist shoes at a speed of 12 km/h±5%. Results A total of 17 subjects (9 in experimental group and 8 in control group) completed the GR. After GR, the maximum loading rate of both groups decreased significantly, and the maximum loading rate of experimental group was lower than that of control group. The foot strike angle in experimental group decreased significantly after GR, and the plantarflexion angle and hip joint angular extension velocity increased in both groups. The force moment of ankle joint increased in experimental group, and the stiffness of lower limbs was significantly improved in both groups. Conclusions A 12-week GR exercise intervention model was successfully established, with 78% conversion rate (from rearfoot strike to forefoot strike). GR can effectively avoid the peak of impact force, reduce the maximum loading rate, increase the lower limb stiffness, and thus reduce or even avoid the risk of running injury caused by impact force and may provide a possibility for the improvement of running economy.

Biomechanical Effects of Shoe Cushioning on Lower Extremities during Drop Landing before and after Neuromuscular Fatigue / 医用生物力学

Objective To examine the effects of shoe cushioning on impact characteristics, kinematics and dynamics of lower extremities before and after neuromuscular fatigue during drop landing. Methods Fifteen trained male athletes were required to execute three successful trials of drop landing from a 60-cm platform before and after fatigue protocol. The impact force, loading rate, lower extremity kinematics, joint moment, joint stiffness were compared. Results Before fatigue, highly-cushioned shoes reduced the loading rate at heel before fatigue, and the time to peak loading rate of heel was significantly shorter than that of control shoes. After fatigue, highly-cushioned shoes significantly reduced the peak impact force and loading rate at heel, loading rate at forefoot. Meanwhile the time to peak impact force and peak loading rate at heel were significantly longer, and the contact and minimum angle of ankle were significantly greater. No significant changes were found in lower extremity stiffness, peak moment and joint stiffness of ankle. Conclusions In the situation where neuromuscular activity is reduced, highly-cushioned shoes can effectively attenuate the impact, thereby helping to avoid or reduce the potential impact damage after fatigue.

Present situation investigation on communication ability of reproductive nurse and its influence factors / 中国实用护理杂志

Objective This study aimed to investigate the present status of communication ability in reproductive nurses and explore the influencing factors, and to provide theoretical support for enhancing the infertility patients consultation satisfaction. Methods A Convenience sample of 191 reproductive nurses were selected from Center for reproductive Medicine of Shandong University and other three general hospitals, which were assessed by questionnaires including the communication ability of nurses, the Big Five Inventory and the Jefferson Scale of Empathy. Results The total scores of communication ability of nurses were (87.76±9.62). Communication ability was positively associated with empathy (r=0.435, P<0.01); Communication ability was negatively associated with neuroticism (r=-0.351, P<0.01) and positively associated with other dimensions of personality (r=0.196~0.433, P<0.01). Multivariate stepwise regression analysis showed that Standing in the patient′s shoes, conscientiousness and agreeableness could singnificantly predict the variance of communication ability. Conclusions The moderate communication ability were found in reproductive nurses. Standing in the patient′s shoes, conscientiousness and agreeableness were the mainly correlated factors of communication ability. The training of reproductive nurses′ empathy and personality is conducive to the improvement of communication ability.

Present situation investigation on communication ability of reproductive nurse and its influence factors / 中国实用护理杂志

Objective@#This study aimed to investigate the present status of communication ability in reproductive nurses and explore the influencing factors, and to provide theoretical support for enhancing the infertility patients consultation satisfaction.@*Methods@#A Convenience sample of 191 reproductive nurses were selected from Center for reproductive Medicine of Shandong University and other three general hospitals, which were assessed by questionnaires including the communication ability of nurses, the Big Five Inventory and the Jefferson Scale of Empathy.@*Results@#The total scores of communication ability of nurses were (87.76±9.62). Communication ability was positively associated with empathy (r=0.435, P<0.01); Communication ability was negatively associated with neuroticism (r=-0.351, P<0.01) and positively associated with other dimensions of personality (r=0.196~0.433, P<0.01). Multivariate stepwise regression analysis showed that Standing in the patient′s shoes, conscientiousness and agreeableness could singnificantly predict the variance of communication ability.@*Conclusions@#The moderate communication ability were found in reproductive nurses. Standing in the patient′s shoes, conscientiousness and agreeableness were the mainly correlated factors of communication ability. The training of reproductive nurses′ empathy and personality is conducive to the improvement of communication ability.

Forefoot disorders and conservative treatment / 영남의대학술지

Forefoot disorders are often seen in clinical practice. Forefoot deformity and pain can deteriorate gait function and decrease quality of life. This review presents common forefoot disorders and conservative treatment using an insole or orthosis. Metatarsalgia is a painful foot condition affecting the metatarsal (MT) region of the foot. A MT pad, MT bar, or forefoot cushion can be used to alleviate MT pain. Hallux valgus is a deformity characterized by medial deviation of the first MT and lateral deviation of the hallux. A toe spreader, valgus splint, and bunion shield are commonly applied to patients with hallux valgus. Hallux limitus and hallux rigidus refer to painful limitations of dorsiflexion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. A kinetic wedge foot orthosis or rocker sole can help relieve symptoms from hallux limitus or rigidus. Hammer, claw, and mallet toes are sagittal plane deformities of the lesser toes. Toe sleeve or padding can be applied over high-pressure areas in the proximal or distal interphalangeal joints or under the MT heads. An MT off-loading insole can also be used to alleviate symptoms following lesser toe deformities. Morton's neuroma is a benign neuroma of an intermetatarsal plantar nerve that leads to a painful condition affecting the MT area. The MT bar, the plantar pad, or a more cushioned insole would be useful. In addition, patients with any of the above various forefoot disorders should avoid tight-fitting or high-heeled shoes. Applying an insole or orthosis and wearing proper shoes can be beneficial for managing forefoot disorders.

Allergic contact dermatitis to shoes: contribution of a specific series to the diagnosis

Abstract: Background: In our country, the Brazilian Standard Series is the most used for the etiological diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis to shoes. However, there is no assessment of the usefulness of specific allergens for shoes. Objectives: To measure the improvement in diagnostic accuracy of allergic contact dermatitis to shoes with the use of a specific complementary series in patch testing and describe the characteristics of the affected population, such as gender, location of lesions, time of evolution, and the most common allergens. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated the results of 52 patients with suspected shoe dermatitis subjected to patch tests with the standard and specific series to quantify the gain in diagnostic accuracy. Results: Among the 52 suspected cases, 29 cases (56%) were confirmed. In 13 (45%) cases the diagnosis was determined through the specific series, which results in an 81% increase in the number of diagnoses. Study limitation: Small sample size. Conclusions: Women were more commonly affected, with a mean time for the final diagnosis of 45 months, and the most common localization was the dorsum of the feet. There was an increase in diagnostic accuracy with the introduction of new haptens in the patch test of patients with suspected shoes dermatitis.

The influence of heel height related on quality of life on the foot in a sample of women

SUMMARY Many women have worn high-heel shoes (HHS) at some point in their lives and many wear them on a daily basis, with higher prevalence between 39% and 78% observed in institutional and clinical settings. The purpose of this study was to describe and compare the scores obtained with regard to foot health and health in general in a sample of women that use HHS as opposed to a sample of women without HHS with normalized reference values. A sample of 120 participants with a mean age of 41.94 ± 13.912 came to a health center where self-reported data were registered. The subjects with and without HHS were determined and the scores obtained were compared in the Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ). This questionnaire is made of 13 questions that assess 4 health domains of the feet, namely pain, function, general health and footwear. The women in the HHS group showed a worse quality of life related to health in general and to foot health specifically. Differences between the two groups were evaluated by means of a t-test for independent samples, showing statistical significance (P<0.01). Women with HHS present a negative impact on the quality of life related to foot health.

RESUMO Muitas mulheres usaram sapatos de salto alto (SSA) em algum momento de suas vidas e muitas usam diariamente, com maior prevalência entre 39% e 78%, observadas em contextos institucionais e clínicos. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever e comparar os escores obtidos em relação à saúde dos pés e à saúde em geral em uma amostra de mulheres que utilizam SSA em oposição a uma amostra de mulheres sem SSA com valores de referência normalizados. Uma amostra de 120 participantes com idade média de 41,94 ± 13,912 chegou a um centro de saúde onde os dados autorrelatados foram registrados, os informantes com e sem SSA foram determinados e os escores obtidos foram comparados no Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ). Esse documento tem 13 questões que avaliam quatro domínios de saúde dos pés, nomeadamente dor, função, saúde geral e calçado. As mulheres do grupo SSA apresentaram pior qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde em geral e à saúde dos pés, especificamente. As diferenças entre os dois grupos foram avaliadas por meio de um teste t para amostras independentes, mostrando significância estatística (P <0,01). As mulheres com SSA apresentam um impacto negativo na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde dos pés.