 New research suggests that supportive footwear first came into use up to 30,000 years ago. Erik Trinkaus, PH.D., derived these dates by analysing anatomical evidence of humans phalanges, which are the 14 toes bones. His research was published in the July issue of the Journal of Archaeological Science. Use of protective footwear has been difficult to previously prove because the footwear does not survive the test of time. Trinkaus discovered that the bones of the little toes of humans from that time frame were much less stongly built than those of their ancestors. The most logical cause would be the introduction of supportive footwear. During bearfoot walking, the smaller toes flex for traction, keeping the toe bones strong. Supportive footwear lessens the roll of the little toes, thus weakening them. He attributes the change to the invention of shoes that reduced our need for strong, flexible toes to grip and balance. Related Stories
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Soc Chiropodists & Podiatrists 15-Sep-2005
Categories: Footwear, Footnote
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