How to Step Up your Foot Health: The Benefits of Wearing Shoes

Foot pain is a common complaint that can affect anyone, regardless of activity level. Foot pain can be caused by various factors, like poor foot function. However, one of the most preventable causes of foot pain is wearing improper footwear.

 

Wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support and cushioning can lead to a variety of foot problems, such as blisters, corns, calluses, bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and stress fractures. These problems can interfere with your daily activities, reduce your mobility, and lower your quality of life.

 

Therefore, it is important to choose shoes that suit your foot shape, size, and needs. Here are some tips on how to select and wear shoes that can prevent foot problems and promote foot health:

• Measure your feet regularly and buy shoes that fit your current foot size. Your feet can change over time due to loss. Avoid shoes that are too short. There should be about half an inch of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
• Choose shoes that match your activity and the surface you walk on. For example, if you run on hard surfaces, such as concrete, you need shoes that have good shock absorption and stability. If you play sports, you need shoes that are designed for the specific sport and movement patterns. If you work in an environment that exposes your feet to hazards, like heavy objects, you need shoes that offer protection and durability.
• Look for shoes that have a roomy toe box, a firm heel counter, a flexible sole, and a well-cushioned insole. These features can help prevent pressure, friction, and injury to your toes, heels, arches, and balls of your feet. Avoid shoes that have flat soles, as these can cause excessive strain and deformity to your feet.
• Replace your shoes when they are damaged. Worn-out shoes can lose their shape, support, and cushioning, which can increase your risk of foot problems. You can check the wear patterns on the sole, the heel, and the upper of your shoe to determine if you need a new pair. As a rule, you should replace your shoes every six to 12 months of regular use.
• Consider using orthotics if you have specific foot needs. Shoe inserts are devices that you can place inside your shoes to provide correction. They can be custom-made by a podiatrist. Orthotics are prescription medical devices that are designed to prevent certain foot disorders, like plantar fasciitis. They can help improve your foot function, alignment, and posture.

By following these tips, you can find shoes that can prevent foot problems and keep your feet healthy and happy. However, if you already have foot problems that worsen, you should consult a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment. A podiatrist is a doctor who specializes in the care of the feet and ankles. A podiatrist can help you identify the cause of your foot pain, prescribe the appropriate treatment, and recommend the best footwear for your condition.