Shoes

 Some of the more serious foot disorders, and even more common conditions, can be directly linked to one avoidable cause: inappropriate, poor quality or ill-fitting footwear. Most Foot Specialists agree, that a good quality, well fitted shoe pays big dividends for your feet in the long run.

When shopping for footwear, always take care not to not force your feet inside the shoes in an attempt to conform your foot to the shape if it is not a good fit. 

The most important quality to look for in shoes is durable construction that will protect your feet from the elements, while providing comfort. Shoes that do not fit properly can cause bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes and other disabling foot disorders.

Fitting Appropriate Footwear

Here are some tips to help reduce the risk of foot problems. Refer to this guide each time you shop for shoes:
Important tip: Be sure to try new shoes on both feet. Most people have one foot larger than the other, which can result in an improper fit.

• Have both feet measured every time you purchase shoes. Your foot size often increases as you get older.
• If shoes feel too tight in the store, don't buy them. There is no such thing as a “break-in period.”
• Most high heeled-shoes have a pointed or narrow toe box, that crowds the toes and forces them into an unnatural triangular shape. As heel height increases, the pressure under the ball of the foot may double, placing greater pressure on the forefoot as it is forced into the pointed toe box.
• Shoes should be fitted carefully to your heel as well as your toes.
• Sizes vary among shoe brands and styles. Judge a shoe by how it fits on your foot – not by the marked size.
• There should be a half-inch of space from the end of your longest toe to the end of the shoe.
• ALWAYS try on both shoes.
• Try on new shoes at the end of the day. Your feet normally swell as the day progresses and typically become larger after standing or sitting throughout the day.
• Walk around in shoes at home, to ensure that they fit well and feel comfortable for long periods of time.
• When the shoe is on your foot, you should be able to freely wiggle all of your toes, without restriction.
• Footwear with a heel higher than 2 1/4 inches, should generally be avoided to maintain foot health.

Step Above Footwear

If you would like some assistance or guidance when selecting appropriate shoes, please visit Step Above Footwear, located next to our Clinic. The store offers a wide selection of quality footwear that promote foot health for all shapes and sizes. The experienced staff will assist you in finding the perfect fit, for your foot.