By Barbara Pierce
Wearing shoes that don’t fit right or aren’t right for the activity you’re doing can cause a lot of foot problems — problems that can be painful and can interfere with your ability to walk.
We depend on our feet.
Most of us take our feet for granted.
Choosing the right shoes is important to preventing foot-related problems.
“Having a proper shoe minimizes problems,” said Wendy Schara, a doctor of podiatric medicine at Foot Doctors of Utica.
Wearing well-fitting, supportive shoes can have a big effect on your health. But research suggests that many of us wear shoes that are the wrong size or ill-fitting.
Poor shoe choices can significantly impact your health by causing various foot problems like blisters, calluses, corns, bunions, plantar fasciitis, hammertoes and ingrown toenails. Any of these can lead to pain, discomfort and even affect your overall body alignment, causing back pain as well.
What to consider when choosing shoes?
“Making sure the shoe fits you properly,” should be your first consideration, said Schara. “I’m a firm believer in going to a shoe store where they will measure your feet — this makes a huge difference. They’ll match your foot structure to the right shoe. This is a huge service.”
A lot of people don’t know this. But the representative in the shoe store is knowledgeable; they will try to point you to the right shoes with a foot-measuring device.
Proper fit is the most crucial aspect for a shoe. Your shoes should be neither too tight nor too loose. Ensure there’s adequate space for your toes to wiggle comfortably. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
Stand up as the representative uses measures your feet, as your feet are longer when standing. Have both feet measured, as often one foot is larger. Fit the shoes to the larger foot. Also, as feet tend to swell throughout the day, it’s best to try on shoes later in the day.
“Don’t always assume you are the same size, as sizes vary among brands and styles,” said Schara.
Choose a shoe that fits the shape of your foot that conforms as nearly as possible to the shape of the front, widest part of your foot.
“When you’re buying shoes, try them on in the store, walk around in the store. Then, wear the shoes at home multiple times to make sure they’re comfortable. As long as the shoe isn’t worn, it can be returned if it isn’t comfortable,” Schara added.
Make sure the shoes are comfortable from the start. If they don’t feel right, you can’t break them in later. Shoes can’t be ‘broken in.’ Pain is a signal to tell you that something is wrong.
The next important consideration is to choose shoes that are designed for the specific activity you’ll be doing, whether walking, running or standing for long periods of time. Different activities require different types of shoes. Running shoes, for example, differ from walking shoes or work boots. Consider the specific demands of your activity when choosing footwear.
For example, if you spend a lot of time standing or walking on hard surfaces, opt for shoes with softer soles and supportive insoles to distribute pressure evenly. Lace-up boots can help maintain proper foot alignment and reduce soreness.
If you’re involved in sports several days a week, you can find specific shoes for weight-lifting, cycling, hiking, tennis, basketball, soccer and more.
Custom shoe inserts prescribed by a podiatrist can provide personalized support and improve foot posture.
Next, look for shoes with good arch support and heel cushioning. This helps absorb shock and reduce foot fatigue. Proper arch support helps maintain the natural alignment of your foot.
People have different arches — normal, flat or high arches. Choosing shoes that fit with your arch type is essential for comfort and support.
Plantar fasciitis is a common, very painful foot condition, causing heel pain. It can be triggered by shoes lacking proper arch support, like flip-flops.
Cushioned soles provide comfort and protection from impact and reduce stress on your feet and joints. The right amount of cushioning depends on your weight, activity level and foot type.
Some people have a higher risk of developing foot problems than others, especially those with poor sensation and circulation in their feet, due to diabetes or vascular diseases.
“People with diabetes have more difficulty with shoes,” said Schara. “They need to have a wider toe box as any pressure on the toes can cause a breakdown. They also need a multi-density insole.”
“Having a proper shoe minimizes problems for diabetics,” she added. “Medicare covers one pair of shoes per year if you have diabetes and a diagnosed foot problem.”
A doctor must certify your need for diabetic shoes and a podiatrist must prescribe the shoes.
Choosing the right shoes contributes to your overall well-being. By choosing the right shoes, you’re safeguarding your mobility and independence.