Credit: CC0 Public Domain

A new study indicates that particular areas of foot pain are more likely to occur together, and these clusters have specific characteristics.

By analyzing 558 individuals with , investigators identified five clusters of pain according to location, all with distinct differences based on age, sex, and comorbidities such as obesity and depression.The findings provide greater understanding of patterns of foot pain in the community and highlights opportunities for interventions.

"Foot pain is a problem that is often under-recognized but can have a significant impact on and activities. By understanding the characteristics of those reporting that they have foot pain, we can potentially provide more targeted preventative strategies and treatments for at risk individuals," said Dr. Tiffany Gill, lead author of the Arthritis Care & Research study.

More information: Tiffany K. Gill et al, Identification of clusters of foot pain location in a community sample, Arthritis Care & Research (2017). DOI: 10.1002/acr.23212

Journal information: Arthritis Care & Research

Provided by Wiley