Abstract

The paper details metrical analysis of the morphological adaptations of the foot arches to sustained professional tree climbing activity. Foot inversion, as required by climbers on a long term and regular basis morphs the medial longitudinal arch over a period of time. The permanent anatomical change in the arch is reflected as a measurable non-invasive parameter through the analysis of footprints.

This community study on the progressive adaptation of the arch to the rigors of climbing was recorded through footprints collected from the climbers with varied experience in the profession. The collation of observations show that the arch continues to shrink with sustained inversion, raising the dome of the instep.

The progressive compensatory rise in arch height, however is arrested abruptly after a time lag, with failure of the arch to accommodate the stresses of climbing – leading to fall from heights even in experienced of climbers. The article discusses the bio-mechanisms and kinetics of foot adaptation to the rigors of climbers and analysis the cause of accidental falls

Key words: medial longitudinal arch, foot, palm tree, community, inversion hallux valgus