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General Tips - Purchase shoes at the end of the day (when your feet are larger) to be certain they won't be too tight.
- If you can't wiggle your toes, the shoes are too small. Round or square-toed shoes have the most room, while narrow or pointed-toed shoes have the least and can aggravate conditions such as bunions and hammertoes.
- Measure both feet. One usually is larger and the shoe should fit comfortably on that foot.
- Try on shoes with socks, hose, or any special insert you normally wear.
- Walk around the store in the shoes before purchasing. They should feel comfortable. Do not expect shoes to stretch to fit your foot.
- Footwear with adequate cushioning or shock absorption, such as athletic shoes, absorb more stress and protect your feet. This is noteworthy for anyone with heel pain.
- Shoes should have good arch support. Those that bend in the mid-sole area can lead to plantar fasciitis or arch pain.
- Note: Hammertoes, bunions, heel pain, and flatfeet are aggravated by poorly fitting or inappropriate footwear. Custom inserts or orthotics can help relieve pain and aid in the treatment of certain foot deformities. Consult a podiatric foot and ankle surgeon for proper treatment of these conditions.
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Buying Shoes for Children
Be sure there is ample space (a thumb's width) between the child's longest toe and the front of the shoe.
Shoes should fit snugly around the heel to avoid slippage.
Inspect your child's feet often for irritation or blisters. The shoe fit also should be checked frequently since children are continuously growing.
Buying Shoes During Pregnancy
Feet grow and swell during pregnancy. Proper footwear can help reduce pain and discomfort. For example:
The extra weight of pregnancy can lead to heel pain or planter fasciitis. Arch supports can help avoid this problem.
Wear an athletic shoe or running shoe with a roomy toe box to avoid aggravating conditions such as bunions or hammertoes.
Wear support stockings to minimize foot and ankle swelling.
Buying Shoes For People with Diabetes
Diabetes patients must take precautions to avoid irritation or sores on feet.
Therefore:
Avoid walking barefoot to prevent cuts, sores and possible infection.
Wear shoes with ample room in the toes, good cushioning and arch support.
For some, special diabetic shoes with custom inserts provide the best support and protection. |
Foot and Ankle Center
1303 Sunset Drive
Johnson City, TN
423-232-1771 Phone
