Wearing properly fitted shoes is absolutely crucial in maintaining your foot health. However, it can be often undervalued or under prioritised by many. Our feet are responsible for our overall posture and gait, consequently affecting biomechanics and the structure of our bodies. In particular, foot health is integral to children’s development. In adulthood, while our feet stop growing, they can still change in shape as we mature. AtMelbourne Foot Clinic, we understand the importance of foot health and podiatry in Melbourne. Here’s what you should know about properly fitted shoes:
Risks of Wearing Poorly-Fitting Shoes
Wearing poorly-fitted shoes can potentially increase your risk in developing a variety of foot ailments which can hinder your health and everyday functioning. For example, wearing ill-fitting shoes that are too tight can cause:
- Blisters and ulcers
- Skin irritation and cuts
- Corns and calluses
- Fungus from lack of air circulation
- Foot odour
- Pain in the arch of the foot
- Ingrown toenails
- Bunions
These risks can exacerbate or lead to further health issues including:
- Back pain
- Knee pain
- Hip pain
- Ankle pain
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Nerve damage causing numbness, muscle weakness or atypical pain
Tips to Deciding What Shoes To Wear
There are a number of tips to consider when it comes to investing in properly fitted shoes. At Melbourne Foot Clinic, we highly recommend the following advice:
Attend a Proper Shoe Fitting
When it is time to purchase a new pair of shoes, it is integral for you to have your feet properly measured. Shoe stores typically offer shoe fittings where they can determine your correct shoe size by using a variety of measuring devices and tools.
Research suggests that the best time to have your shoes fitted is during later in the day. This is because our feet tend to naturally swell, being at their largest. This will ensure a more accurate size measurement, and properly fitted shoes = happy feet!
However, if you are experiencing abnormal or chronic foot pain, our podiatrists at Melbourne Foot Clinic can facilitate your foot health and related needs. We offer specialised treatment such as orthotics fittings and foot therapy. Consult your trusted podiatry Melbourne clinic today.
Features of a Properly Fitted Shoe
Now that you have your correct shoe size, it is time to consider some shoe features that will maximize your foot comfort and health.
- Try to avoid wearing thin-soled shoes, high heels or flip flops as much as you can – these shoes are the least supportive and can cause issues after long-term wear.
- Choose shoes that have a broad, rounded toe box – this will guarantee comfort when going about your daily activities.
- Wiggle your toes to ensure there is enough room in the toe box. To check for room, place your thumbprint horizontally between the front top of your shoe and the tip of your toe. The gap should not be larger than your thumb!
- Wearing the appropriate socks with your shoes is important. Try to wear cotton or bamboo socks in your everyday shoes and specific sport socks in your running or exercise footwear.
- Wearing breathable shoes is particularly beneficial! Materials such as leather, natural fibers, or mesh fabrics are ideal as they allow for maximum breathability.
By wearing properly fitted shoes, the chances of you experiencing adverse foot pain or unwanted health issues is minimised. Investing in good-quality shoes is the biggest favour you could do for your health!
Foot Doctor Melbourne
Do you have foot or heel pain or don’t know where to start? Schedule a consultation with our expert podiatrists at Melbourne Foot Clinic. For more information on what we do or for general advice, visit our site