Online shopping makes it easier for people to shop on their own time without ever having to leave the comfort of their home, but not everything is better bought online. Shoes, for example, are one item that should be bought in person because you never know how they truly fit until you try them on. If they’re a little too big or too small in the store, you will probably ask for a different pair, but if they come in the mail, you’re more likely to deal with the ill-fitting pair than go through the hassle of returning them for a different pair.
If your shoes don’t fit properly, you can suffer from a number of different foot problems. Some common conditions caused by ill-fitting shoes include:
- Bunions
- Corns
- Hammer Toe
- Crossover Toe
- Ingrown Toenail
- Fallen Arches
- Plantar Heel Pain
Choosing The Right Shoe To Prevent Foot Problems
If you’re in the market for new shoes, keep these tips in mind in order to prevent foot issues from developing.
- Ask a salesperson to measure your foot to ensure a proper fit.
- Make sure that your toes don’t feel pinched or cramped, and that none of your toes are pushed over another toe.
- Opt for a wider toe box over a closed toe box when possible.
- Make sure your arches are supported based on your arch height.
- Consider orthotic inserts to achieve the right level of support.
- Find your shoe fit in the afternoon, as your feet tend to swell a little throughout the day, and this will help ensure your shoes aren’t too tight when they swell.
- If the shoe doesn’t fit, don’t assume it will when you “break it in.”
- Invest in a quality and durable shoe, don’t just grab the cheapest option.
If you follow these tips, we’re confident that you’ll be able avoid foot problems caused by ill-fitting shoes. However, if you do develop a problem, or you’ve been compensating for a foot or toe deformity for some time, consider having it examined by a trained foot specialist. Dr. Silverman can take a look and set you up with some treatment plans to ensure your feet get back to full health. Contact his office today for more information.
If you want to learn more about buying the right kind of shoes, check out some of these shoe buying guides Dr. Silverman has put together.
4 Tips For Buying and Wearing the Right Shoes
5 Tips For Buying The Right Sandals
Tips For Buying The Right Baseball Cleats
A Helpful Guide For Buying Hiking Boots
Protective Footwear in the Workplace
The Right Shoe Features For Each Sport