Have you ever thought of the cost of musculoskeletal problems each year in the UK? Arthritis Research Campaign (arc) figures show that over 9 million people in the UK visited their GP with such a problem, that is 19% of the total population. Of which 760,000 had severe osteoarthritis of their knees and hips. When you add in to these figures the costs of consultations, drugs and surgery the costs exceed £5.5 billion. But how much money could be saved with a proactive approach of screening to prevent degenerative arthritis?
Degenerative conditions of the knee, hip and lower-back if seen in the family are likely to place a higher risk on the next generation as people's bone structure are usually hereditary. By looking at the parents and grandparents of an individual, the risk factors for degenerative arthritis can be identified and reduced by undergoing an assessment for an accurate diagnosis of the current joint functions and reducing the risk of further deterioration with a tailored foot support for all physical activities.
Arc are also backing an awareness campaign of wearing appropriate footwear for all things throughout people's lives. They quote 9 out of 10 women wear shoes smaller than their feet! They also suggest women should keep their heel size down to a maximum of 2 inches whenever possible and keeping high-heeled shoes for special occasions only. It is also understood that wearing heels too often is a major contributing factor to Achilles problems and instability of the ankle, knee and hip. This also ties in with an increased risk of lower-back pain.
They are actively encouraging people of all ages to wear appropriate trainers more often because they provide excellent support for the foot and cushioning for the joints.
As a Clinic we have championed this cause for the last 12 years - but we also add a note of realism and do not preach not to wear heels but to be aware of when is appropriate to do so!
