(1) It is hypothesized that the adaptations which produce shock absorption, an inherent consequence of barefoot activity and a mechanism responsible for the low injury frequency in unshod populations, are related to deflection of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot on loading.
(2) Significant differences between the predominance in shod and unshod children were noted in all age groups, most marked in those with generalised ligament laxity.
(3) Flat foot was most common in children who wore closed-toe shoes, less common in those who wore sandals or slippers, and least in the unshod.
(4) Among the acquired forms was idiopathic hallux varus of middle age, which developed spontaneously in unshod persons and progressed gradually.
(5) This paper describes the application of foil strain gauges to the hoof wall, and the use of measuring equipment to monitor weightbearing and changes in hoof shape in shod and unshod horses.
(6) The Harris mat footprint test is a static used when the patient is unshod.