(This story was originally written and recorded for Retrocast #33, released on April 16, 2025.)

On August 3, 1956, the National Association of Chiropodists convened a meeting of delegates to address the challenges faced by mail carriers. More than 2,000 foot doctors and guests registered for the convention.

One of the major issues plaguing letter carriers, as highlighted by Dr. Raymond K. Locke, chairman of the council on scientific sections, are the “two perils for postmen”. These include frequent dog bites and various foot problems, including sprained ankles.

In response to these concerns, the post office has expressed a desire for a specially designed shoe of better construction than what letter carriers typically wore. They believe such footwear would help overcome these problems and suggest that a three-quarter length, or low shoe, would be more suitable. Consequently, delegates at the meeting approved a resolution to assign the development of dog bite-proof shoes to the association’s research committee, headed by Dr. William F. Eads of San Diego, California. Dr. Abe Rubin of Washington, D.C., the association secretary and editor of its official Journal, said that the Postal Service would be establishing an industrial medical division, and once that was set up, chiropodists would be appointed to work at various metropolitan post offices.