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A study in 2005 of medieval remains found hallux valgus - a small deformity of the big toe with a bony protrusion at its base, more commonly known as bunions - exclusively in corpses from the poulaine era.

“This would allow me to treat refugees with minor disabilities, flat feet or hallux valgus toes, or people with diabetes who need soft soles,” he said.

Only 6% of those buried between the 11th and 13th Centuries had bunions - or hallux valgus - in which the big toe angles outward and a bony protrusion forms at its base.

Dr Piers Mitchell said: "We investigated the changes that occurred between the high and late medieval periods and realised the increase in hallux valgus over time must have been due to the introduction of these new footwear styles."

The medical term for bunions is hallux valgus.