Relationship Between Footwear Consumer Behaviour and Lower Extremity Injuries

Is Consumer Behaviour Towards Footwear Predisposing for Lower Extremity Injuries in Runners and Walkers? A Prospective Study

A prospective cohort study was set-up in leisure-time walkers and runners. Potential risk factors in consumer behaviour were obtained by means of a baseline questionnaire related to the acquisition of current walking or running shoes. Information on injuries sustained during a 24 week period after the baseline questionnaire was obtained in 104 runners and 104 walkers using a 2-weekly questionnaire.

Inclusion Criteria:

• walk or run at least 10 kilometres per week
• maintain a minimal distance of ten kilometres per week, for a period of 24 weeks
• wear one and the same pair of shoes during walking/running activities during this period

Exclusion Criteria:

• systemic disease, cardiac problems or diabetes
• complaints at the lower extremities in the last two weeks,
• surgery at the lower extremities in the last three years