British feet getting longer and wider, say experts | Health

British feet are getting longer and wider, experts have said. During the last four decades, the average British foot has increased by two shoe sizes, the College of Podiatry said. In 1970, men's feet were size eight on average and women size four, but now the average male wears a size 10 and the average

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British feet getting longer and wider, say experts

This article is more than 9 years oldAverage British foot has increased by two shoe sizes over past 40 years, says College of Podiatry

British feet are getting longer and wider, experts have said.

During the last four decades, the average British foot has increased by two shoe sizes, the College of Podiatry said.

In 1970, men's feet were size eight on average and women size four, but now the average male wears a size 10 and the average female wears a size six, a spokeswoman said.

The increase could be linked to the population's increased weight and height, she added.

A poll conducted by the college found two-thirds of women claim their feet have got wider in adult life, and 35% said they have got bigger. And the survey of 2,000 British adults found 48% of men said their feet have got bigger, and 61% said they are wider.

The college also cautioned that many people are risking foot problems by trying to squeeze their feet into shoes that are too small and narrow.

"Feet are getting bigger because as a nation we are becoming taller and we're increasing in weight," said Lorraine Jones from the College of Podiatry.

"Increased weight gain places more pressure on the feet and means ligaments and joints need to work harder to maintain the foot's structure and keep you mobile.

"Over time, if someone is gaining weight, the feet splay to try and accommodate the increased pressure – which can cause pain, lead to mobility issues and increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis in the lower limb joints.

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