subject: Finding The Right Shoes For You [print this page] Millions of people suffer from chronic foot pain on a daily basis. One of the most important factors in why people develop foot pain is the type of shoe that they are wearing. When you are shopping for a new pair of shoes, it is important to be mindful of how they fit you and take enough time to make a decision. If your shoes do not fit you properly, they can lead to the development of many different foot problems. If you already suffer from foot problems, the right fitting shoes can ensure that they do not get worse.
Getting The Right Fit
Getting the right fit with your shoes is extremely important to maintain healthy, pain-free feet. Here are a few tips to help you when you are trying on shoes:
*Don't force a shoe on your feet to conform your feet to it. Instead, the shoe should conform to your feet.
*Have both feet measured every time you purchase a new pair of shoes. Foot sizes will increase as you get older and in some cases, your feet can actually be different sizes.
*Sizes can vary between different brands. Make sure that you fit your feet to the individual shoe instead of the marked size.
*If the shoe feels too tight, do not buy it. Many people mistakenly buy shoes with the idea that they will break in after a period of time. This is generally false.
*There should be about a inch of space at the end of the shoe by your toes. You should be able to freely wiggle all of your toes.
Results Of Poorly Fitting Shoes
If you wear shoes that do not fit you correctly, you will potentially have problems to deal with in the future. Shoes that are either too big or too small can lead to the development of a variety of problems. Here are a few common problems that can be caused by ill-fitting shoes:
*Bunions. A bunion is a deformity that is caused by an enlargement of the joint at the base of your big toe. The most common cause of bunions is wearing shoes that are too tight around the toes. Bunions can become very painful over time and you should keep them in mind when you are buying shoes. There are a number of treatments for bunions, including surgery.
*Corns and Calluses. Corns and calluses are layers of dead skin cells that build up on your toes and feet. They are causes by repeated friction of your feet rubbing up against an ill-fitting shoe.
*Ingrown Toenail. An ingrown toenail occurs when your toenail grows into the flesh of your toe. Often, this can occur because of pressure being put on your nail by tight shoes.
To learn more about how to best choose a pair of shoes or to schedule an appointment, contact your Silver Springs podiatrist today.
