Many foot problems can be a direct result of wearing ill fitting or improper shoes. Ill fitting shoes can result in minor foot irritations such as blisters or swelling, but can also aggravate more serious foot conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, plantar fasciitis and arch or heel pain. Buying properly fitting shoes is the simplest and single most effective way to prevent common foot injuries, and deformities.
These guidelines will help you choose the best shoes for you and your children.
- Your feet are larger at the end of the day so shop for shoes in the evening to make sure that you’re buying large enough shoes.
- Measure both of your feet. One foot is almost always larger than the other, so make sure your shoes fit the larger foot comfortably.
- Opt for round or square-toed shoes over narrow or pointed-toe shoes. Wiggle your toes in them. If you can’t move your toes around in the shoes, they’re not a good choice.
- Try on shoes with any socks, hosiery, or orthotics that you normally wear.
- Walk around a bit in the store before purchasing shoes. Although the salesperson may tell you that the shoe will stretch, do not expect it to actually do so. If the shoe is uncomfortable now, it will still be uncomfortable later.
- Look for stable arch support. Shoes that bend in the mid-sole area may aggravate arch pain.
For Children
- Make sure there is at least a thumb’s width space between your child’s longest toe and the front of the shoe.
- Make sure that the shoe fits snugly on your child’s heel to prevent slippage, and blisters.
- Check regularly to make sure your child’s shoes still fit. Children’s feet grow at an impressive rate.
***Please note that these are only general guidelines, and should you have foot pain, recurring blisters, or nail problems, schedule an office visit.
