This week is Foot Health Week! Did you know that poorly fitting shoes can not only be painful, but lead to foot problems such as inflammation, plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammer toe, ingrown toenails and corns to name a few (Mod Pod Podiatry, 2020).
With the average person spending 1/3 of their life at work, it is important to invest in some well-fitting shoes!
Here’s some tips on choosing the right shoe for you (www.footcaremd.org, 2018):
- Try on your shoes before you buy – Your shoe size can change over time. Don’t reply on the fact that you’ve always worn a certain size. Different brands may also fit your foot differently.
- Fit your shoes to the larger foot – Most people have one foot that is larger than the other, so make sure you have BOTH feet measured.
- Try on your shoes at the end of the day – When your feet are at their largest. Your feet can swell throughout the day.
- Look at the shape of your shoe – Make sure the shoe shape resembles your foot and fits your foot comfortably.
- Don’t plan on shoes stretching over time – They should fit well when you buy them.
- Check the width of your shoe – The ball of your foot (the widest part just before your toes begin) should comfortably fit at the widest part of the shoe).
- Check the depth of the shoe – The shoe should be deep enough to fit your toes, especially if you have hammer toes or other conditions.
- Check the space at the end of the shoe – Stand up and make sure there is about a finger width between your longest toe and the end of your shoe.
- Always stand and walk around in your shoes – this will help you determine that they are comfortable, fit well and don’t chafe or rub.