Consequences of foot binding among older women in Beijing, China.

Abstract

This study examined the prevalence and consequences of foot binding in older Chinese women. Women older than 70 years in Beijing, China, were assessed for bound feet, falls, functional status, and bone density. Thirty-eight percent of women aged 80 years and older and 18% of women aged 70 through 79 years had bound-foot deformities. Women with bound feet were more likely to fall, less able to squat, and less able to stand up from a chair without assistance than women with normal feet. They also had 14.3% less functional reach (a test of balance) and 5.1% lower hip bone density. Foot binding has caused substantial disability that is still evident in many elderly Chinese women.