Picking the Best Footwear

Picking the Best Footwear

Many of us wear shoes for certain activities, such as running or sports. You might also have to wear certain types of footwear for your job. Plus, shoes may also be the finishing touch for your outfit.

Whether you wear specific shoes for work or to make a fashion statement, what goes on your feet can make a difference. Some types of footwear can lead to foot problems or make existing issues worse. The opposite is also true. Wearing some types of shoes may provide the support your feet need. Picking the best footwear may help you avoid pain.

Why do your shoes matter? 

The shoes you choose may play a role in the development of foot pain. But problems with your feet can also lead to hip and back problems. For example, shoes with a lack of support can make foot conditions worse.

Some types of shoes also place your foot in an unnatural position. Also, certain shoes put pressure on a specific part of the foot, which over time can cause a variety of foot problems. 

Types of footwear to limit

There are certain types of footwear that may increase your risk of developing foot problems. Occasionally wearing a pair of five-inch heels or flip-flops at the beach probably won’t cause any foot problems. But over time, certain shoes may lead to bothersome foot issues. Consider limiting the following types of shoes:

High heels: High heels may look trendy. But four-inch heels change your body alignment. This puts extra pressure on your hips and back. Also, high heels may cause your Achilles tendon to shorten, which may lead to pain in flat shoes. High heels also put added pressure on the ball of your feet, which can cause pain and possibly calluses.

Flip-flops: Flip-flops do not provide enough support for the feet. Many of us have worn a pair of flip-flops to the beach or out for a quick errand without any issues. But if you regularly wear flip-flops as your everyday footwear, you might create foot problems.

Poor-fitting shoes: Any shoe can lead to trouble if it does not fit correctly. Shoes that are too tight might crowd your toes. Shoes that are too big could lead to rubbing, calluses, and skin irritation. 

Choosing the right shoes

Choosing the right shoes involves more than selecting a nice style or finding the best price. Your feet take a lot of force each day. Picking the best shoes may help your feet stay pain-free!

Consider the following factors when picking your shoes:

Foot issues: Certain types of shoes may be better depending on your foot problems. For example, if you have bunions, you would not want a shoe with a narrow toe, which might be uncomfortable to wear. Consider what foot problems you have before selecting your shoes.

Activity: Think about what type of activity you will be doing in the shoes. For instance, you probably would not buy the same types of shoe for a night on the town as you would for a hike. 

Support: Consider the amount of arch support the shoe is providing. Look at the heel and the soles of the shoe to make sure it has enough cushioning.

Try the shoe on: This may seem like a no-brainer. But buying shoes online has become popular. Even if your shoe size is the same regardless of the style, it is still best to try a shoe on. Wear the same type of socks you would wear with the shoe. Walk around for a few minutes. Make sure the shoe is not slipping or is not too tight. 

Lastly, if you have problems with your feet, it is best to see a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Podiatrist, Sheldon Nadal, D.P.M at Bayview Eglinton Podiatry Clinic in Toronto.

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/10-tips-for-finding-the-right-shoes

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/Choosing-the-right-shoe