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Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of common foot and ankle problems in Thai monks.
Material and Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in combination with foot and ankle examinations of monks living in northern Thailand. Foot morphology was examined using a Harris mat footprint. Results of the interviews and the foot and ankle examinations were evaluated.
Results: Two hundred and nine monks from 28 temples were included in this study. Common foot and ankle problems found included callosity (70.8%), toe deformities (18.2%), plantar fasciitis (13.4%), metatarsalgia (3.8%), and numbness (2.9%). Callosity and toe deformities were associated with prolonged barefoot walking over extended periods since ordainment (p<0.05). The callosity was found on the forefoot (47.3%), lateral malleolus (40.7%), and heel (12%). Arch types were considered normal in 66.4% of cases, high in 21.6%, and low in 12%. No association was found between arch type and foot and ankle problems.
Conclusion: Callosity and toe deformity were the most common foot and ankle problems found in Thai monks, especially those with prolonged period of barefoot walking and long-term duration of ordainment. The unique pattern of walking and sitting of Thai monks may have contributed to the development of those feet and ankle problems.
Keywords: Foot ankle, Monk, Prevalence, Problem, Unshod, Callosity