CareINFoot Research for the improvement of early childhood footwear that contributes to healthy foot development
A child’s foot is structurally and functionally different from that of an adult and does not detect pressure discomfort caused by footwear, which makes it essential to wear appropriate shoes to prevent future foot deformities. Although children's fashion styles often follow trends marked by adult footwear, younger children's feet have unique needs and require a proper fit that avoids compression. In this context, INESCOP, within the framework of the CareINFoot project funded by IVACE, is working to establish the scientific basis that guides the design and manufacture of children’s footwear.
In recent years, a lively debate has emerged on social media regarding the proper development of children's feet in relation to footwear. One of the most widespread ideas today is that children’s feet may develop more healthily by walking barefoot or wearing shoes that mimic the sensation of walking barefoot.
Proponents of this type of footwear argue that growing children's feet should move freely in order to properly develop the plantar arch and muscle structure. However, the difficulty in conducting studies at this early stage (12 to 36 months) means that there is no solid scientific evidence linking footwear to foot development in the early phases of childhood.
For this reason, it is essential to investigate these popular theories and provide scientific backing for the appropriate development that children's feet should undergo, as well as the footwear best suited to achieve this goal. This is the purpose of the CareINFoot project, which seeks to raise awareness among parents and guardians about the importance of proper foot care during childhood, while at the same time providing scientific knowledge to the sector for the design and manufacture of children’s footwear that respects the anatomy of the foot in children aged between 12 and 36 months.
CareINFoot OBJECTIVE
The aim of the CareINFoot project is to establish a scientific basis to guide the design and manufacture of children’s footwear, ensuring a proper fit that respects the anatomy of the foot.
RESULTADOS ESPERADOS
This research aims to identify the public’s preferences and purchasing habits, as well as the technical characteristics of children’s footwear currently on the market. It also seeks to create an anthropometric database of children aged 12 to 36 months to support the development of a foot and last prototype for each size, facilitating the scientific design and manufacture of children’s footwear.
Start date: 01/01/2024
End date: 31/12/2024
Reference: IMDEEA/2024/74
We show you how we digitize the feet of the little ones
Digital leaflet Results report and Dissemination report (deliverables)
Collaborating companies:
The CareINFoot project contributes to the following SDGs:
Project funded by:
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