Authors : Bhaumik Dinkar Vartak; Dr. Vaishali Kale

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 2 - February

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/muj6n7h5

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/m69dc46x

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26feb1502

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Introduction: Footwear design plays an important role in influencing foot biomechanics and overall lower limb function. Toe box width, in particular, may affect forefoot splay, foot posture, ankle stability, and functional performance. However, limited evidence exists regarding its direct impact on ankle-foot complex stability and functional outcomes in healthy adults.  Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among healthy adults aged 18–45 years. Participants were categorized into two groups based on habitual footwear use and toe box width measurement: Group A (narrow toe box users) and Group B (wide toe box users). Outcome measures included forefoot width measurement, Chippaux-Smirak Index (CSI) for arch assessment, Foot Posture Index (FPI-6), Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT), Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), active range of motion using a universal goniometer, Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for comfort and fatigue. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests to compare groups.  Results: A statistically significant difference was observed in structural toe box width between the two groups, confirming accurate classification. However, no significant differences were found between narrow and wide toe box users in ankle stability (CAIT), functional ability (FAAM), balance performance (SEBT), range of motion, muscle strength, or perceived comfort and fatigue.  Conclusion: Toe box width alone did not significantly influence ankle-foot complex stability, functional performance, or subjective comfort in healthy adults. These findings suggest that footwear 15 biomechanics are multifactorial, and isolated structural features such as toe box width may not independently alter functional outcomes in asymptomatic individuals. Further longitudinal and biomechanical studies are recommended to evaluate long-term effects.

Keywords : Toe Box Width, Ankle Stability, Footwear Biomechanics, Foot Posture, SEBT, CAIT, FAAM.

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