Your feet know what shoe is best — listen to them!
Obviously, one of the best ways to know if a shoe is right for you is how it feels. Do your feet, legs, or back hurt when you wear them? If so, your body is trying to tell you something.
The best shoes are those that feel good. Before you purchase shoes, try them on in the store and walk around to see how they feel. Ask yourself:
- Do I feel pressure on any part of the foot? Crunched toes or rubbing on the heel will only get worse the longer you wear them.
- Does my arch feel supported, or is it just floating inside the shoe?
- Is there at least a quarter of an inch of space between my big toe and the end of the shoe?
- Does the shoe bend slightly at the ball, but not too far? A thin, flimsy sole won’t support your feet for very long.
When “comfort” shoes won’t do
Realistically, you’re probably not going to wear tennis shoes or comfort clogs to the beach or an evening event. So how do you choose a good pair of high heels or flip-flops?
There are some foot-friendly styles that can be worn safely when you want something a little more stylish for certain occasions.
Choosing the right high heels for your feet
Look for a lower, thicker heel, such as a wedge. The higher the heel, the more cramped your toes, which can lead to bunions, damage to tendons, back problems, and more. And, a skinny stiletto provides no ankle support and makes you prone to falling and injuries.
A heel that’s 1.5 inches or lower is your best bet. And only wear them on special occasions. Take them off whenever possible.
Picking the right flip flops
We know people love this shoe in the summer, but tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and many other issues can be caused by excessive flip flop wearing.
Some of today’s flip-flops do have great support and comfort for feet. These will cost more than the “bargain” plastic or foam flip-flops, but they’ll likely last longer — and you’ll save yourself some foot problems and pain. Alternate them with quality, supportive sandals that have a heel strap for even better support. Try them on and look for a quality sole with a contoured footbed and arch support.
Your shoes support the foundation of your body — your feet! Choose them wisely so you can prevent or alleviate foot problems and stay healthy and active.
Do you have questions about foot health or what shoes you should wear? Call us at (913) 338-4440 or contact us online to schedule an appointment with our highly skilled podiatrists.
