recliner footrest closing and tilting

Would anyone know why, over time, most footrests seem to tilt to one side when in the closed position? Is it from resting one foot on the top of footrest when it is open?

also, what is the right way to close the footrest? push down and back with both feet in the middle? grab it by it's sides with both feet and pull back?

Oh, the things that keep me up at night!:)

That's not something I see much of. Footrests are just bolted on with (4) screws, so it can be shimmed if needed. Sounds like a bent mechanism, however. To close, kick down with your feet.