Gender differences in foot morphology of Middle Eastern adults using close-range photogrammetry technique

Foot morphology is essential for forensics, orthotic design and the manufacturing of footwear. Race, body mass index and environmental factors influence the length, breadth, girth and height of both male and female feet. This study aimed to measure the differences in foot dimensions between Middle Eastern men and women using close-range photogrammetry. A total of 14 dimensions of the right foot were measured in 18 males and 15 females. The results (length (foot, truncated foot, arch and height at 50% foot), breadth (foot, heel, mid-foot and bimalleolar), height (navicular and ankle joint) and girth (ball and heel)) showed significant gender differences. However, there were no significant differences in outside ball-of-foot length and instep length. These gender differences in the shape characteristics of Middle Eastern adults should be taken into account when designing orthotics and manufacturing footwear.