In July 2018 researchers from Australia published the results of their review of the medical scientific literature to assess the incidence of incorrectly fitted footwear and to examine the association between incorrectly fitted footwear, foot pain and foot disorders. A total of 18 studies were included in the review. Results showed that between 63-72% of individuals wore shoes that did not accommodate either the width or length of their feet. There was also evidence that incorrect footwear fitting was associated with foot pain and foot disorders such as lesser toe deformity, corns and calluses. A further analysis revealed that children with Down syndrome, older individuals and those with diabetes were more likely to wear shoes that were too narrow (between 46-81%).
Buldt AK, Menz HB. Incorrectly fitted footwear, foot pain and foot disorders: a systematic search and narrative review of the literature. J Foot Ankle Res. 2018 Jul 28;11:43