Investigation of The Relationship Between Climbing Shoe Use and Foot Health in Individuals Engaged in Sport Climbing

Akyol Tunç S., Güngör A., Uğurlu A., Orhan İ., Tombak K.

Clinical Physiotherapy and Related Research, cilt.1, sa.2, ss.64-75, 2025 (Hakemli Dergi)

Özet

Introduction: Sport climbing involves repetitive loadings specific to the foot and ankle structures. Tight footwear, prolonged activity, and technical foot placements may lead to biomechanical alterations and deformities. Existing literature on this topic remains limited.
Aim: This study aims to examine the relationship between plantar pressure distribution and foot deformities in sport climbers and to assess the impact of climbing experience on these parameters.
Methods: A total of 37 climbers with at least two years of regular climbing experience participated in this cross-sectional study conducted in Antalya. Static and dynamic plantar pressure measurements were obtained using a portable pedobarographic system. Observed foot deformities, pain symptoms, and shoe size differences were recorded. Appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests were used for statistical analysis.
Results: Hallux valgus was observed in 81.1% of participants, with additional findings of claw toe, dermatological changes, and nail deformities. A significant positive correlation was found between shoe size difference and plantar contact area (r = 0.35, p = 0.032). COP angle was significantly higher on the left foot (p = 0.041), indicating asymmetrical loading. Climbing experience was significantly associated with foot deformity risk (p = 0.027), and climbing style comparisons showed differences particularly between lead–sport and bouldering–sport climbing (p < 0.05).
Discussion and Conclusion: This study confirms that sport climbing may contribute to foot deformities and plantar asymmetries. From a clinical perspective, climbing shoes should be selected based on individual plantar pressure analysis. Supportive insoles and corrective strategies may be considered. Foot-strengthening and proprioceptive exercises should be integrated into training routines to minimize injury risk and optimize performance, particularly in developing athletes