Foot pain often occurs in clusters

NewsBot · Feb 23, 2017

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PUBLIC RELEASE: 23-FEB-2017
Foot pain often occurs in clusters

A new study indicates that particular areas of foot pain are more likely to occur together, and these clusters have specific characteristics.

By analyzing 558 individuals with foot pain, investigators identified five clusters of pain according to location, all with distinct differences based on age, sex, and comorbidities such as obesity and depression. The findings provide greater understanding of patterns of foot pain in the community and highlights opportunities for interventions.

"Foot pain is a problem that is often under-recognized but can have a significant impact on daily life and activities. By understanding the characteristics of those reporting that they have foot pain, we can potentially provide more targeted preventative strategies and treatments for at risk individuals," said Dr. Tiffany Gill, lead author of the Arthritis Care & Research study.
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NewsBot · Feb 23, 2017

Identification of clusters of foot pain location in a community sample
Tiffany K. Gill, Hylton B. Menz, Karl B. Landorf, John B. Arnold, Anne W. Taylor, Catherine L. Hill
Arthritis Care & Research 23 February 2017

Objective: To identify foot pain clusters according to pain location in a community based sample of the general population.

Methods: This study analysed data from the North West Adelaide Health Study. Data were obtained between 2004-2006, using Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing, clinical assessment and self-completed questionnaire. The location of foot pain was assessed using a diagram during the clinical assessment. Hierarchical cluster analysis was undertaken to identify foot pain location clusters, which were then compared in relation to demographics, comorbidities and podiatry utilisation.

Results: There were 558 participants with foot pain (mean age 54.4 years, 57.5% female). Five clusters were identified: one with predominantly arch and ball pain (26.8%); one with hindfoot pain (20.9%); another with heel pain (13.3%), and two with predominantly forefoot, toe and nail pain (28.3% and 10.7%). Each cluster was distinct in age, sex and comorbidity profiles. Of the two clusters with predominantly forefoot, toe and nail pain, one had a higher proportion of males, and those who were classified as obese, had diabetes and who used podiatry services (30%), while the other was comprised of a higher proportion of females who were overweight and had a lower use of podiatry services (17.5%).

Conclusion: Five clusters of foot pain according to pain location were identified, all with distinct age, sex and comorbidity profiles. These findings may assist in identifying individuals at risk for developing foot pain and the development of targeted preventative strategies and treatments.
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