Sexual Dimorphism In Foot Dimensions Among Adult Nigerians

This study is aim at quantitatively analysing physical difference that exist in foot dimensions in males and in females and within both sexes thus providing normal value for foot length and foot breadth for the design and construction of a comfortable foot support in our population. Sexual dimorphism in foot dimension exists within and across both sexes. These gender differences in foot dimension may not be known until they are quantified, as they appear symmetrical at first sight. The foot length and breadth of 477 (249 males and 28 females) individuals were measured directly using the sliding calliper. Their age ranged between 18yrs and above. The mean values for the right foot length of males and females were 26.92 ± 1.02 and 25.00 ± 1.33 respectively. The mean value for the right foot breadth of males and females were 9.87 ± 0.53 and 9.14 ± 0.58 respectively. The mean values for the left foot length of males and females were 26.92 ± 0.13 and 24.75 ± 0.17 respectively. The mean value for the right foot breadth of males and females were 9.75 ± 0.07and 8.92 ± 0.08 respectively. Males had significantly higher values of foot length and foot breadth than females, p < 0.001. Males have longer and broader feet than females for a given age. Female feet are not simply scaled – down versions of male feet. Males and females feet in our population had higher mean foot length than that of Caucasians, which is an adaptation to tropical climate. These findings are useful to shoe design and selection of shoe sizes and to forensic anthropometry.