Effect of foot health-related quality of life in rural population: A case-control study

Background: Foot health problems can affect quality of life and general health producing a source of discomfort and pain. Low levels of foot health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are present in patients with foot disabilities, such as hallux valgus, plantar fasciitis, or minor toe deformities.Objective: The objective was to analyze the foot health status in patients with and without foot problems in a rural population and its relationship with quality of life. Material and methods: A prospective case-control study was developed with a sample of 152 patients, 76 subjects with podiatric pathologies and 76 without, in a rural population. HRQoL was measured through the SF-36 Health Questionnaire in the Spanish version.Results: The case group had a mean age of 49.18 & PLUSMN; 14.96 and the control group 44.16 & PLUSMN; 11.79. Regarding the score of the lowest levels of quality of life related to foot problems, the case group compared to the controls showed: for physical function (79.86 & PLUSMN; 26.38 vs. 92.63 & PLUSMN; 11 0.17, p < 0.001); for the physical role (73.68 & PLUSMN; 41.00 vs. 88.48 & PLUSMN; 27.51, p < 0.0022); for body pain (45.81 & PLUSMN; 27.18 vs. 73.68 & PLUSMN; 41.00, p < 0.035); and for general health (60.36 & PLUSMN; 30.58 vs. 68.71 & PLUSMN; 18.52, p < 0.047). The differences between groups were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test, which showed statistical significance (P < 0.05).Conclusions: In the rural population, people with foot pathologies present a worse quality of life compared to those who do not present foot pathology, especially for the health domains: physical function, physical role, body pain and health general.

Automated summary

Foot health problems can have a negative impact on quality of life and overall health. A study conducted in a rural population found that individuals with foot pathologies have a lower quality of life, especially in terms of physical function, physical role, body pain, and general health.