Shoes can either help with foot pain or cause foot pain. As a matter of fact, a large amount of the population wears the wrong size of shoes, which ultimately leads to foot pain and discomfort.
This year, more than ever, online shopping has been very popular, which means shoppers are relying on their presumed size rather than on shoes that actually fit. Here are a few tips to follow to find the right shoes for you…
Measure Your Feet
Measure Later In the Day – Most people develop some swelling in their feet by the end of the day, which means that their feet change in shape and size. To avoid getting shoes that are too tight, you should go shoe shopping or measure your feet at the end of the day.
Measure When Standing – The size your feet change while sitting and standing, which means you should measure while standing. This will allow you to get the proper measurement of your feet spread out. Have someone help you, so you can stand tall and have your weight centered.
Measure the Arch Length – The arch is measured from the heel to the ball of your foot. To check for the proper fit, stand on your tiptoes, and if the shoe bends with your toes, they are the proper fit.
Shoe Size Number Does Not Matter – Don’t get too concerned with the shoe size number. These numbers change from brand to brand because each company uses different molds to create the shoes. It’s better to measure and look at the sizing guide to find the right fit.
Fit Shoes for Larger Foot – It’s common for feet to vary slightly in size, so you should buy shoes that fit for the larger foot. For the foot that is slightly smaller, you can put inserts or pads in to make up the difference. If your foot is 1 ½ sizes different then you should get different sized shoes.
Trying On Shoes
Wear the Right Socks – When you’re trying on your shoes, wear the right socks or hose that you would typically wear with those shoes. The thickness will impact the fit and the comfort of the shoe quite a bit.
Leave Some Room – At the front of the shoe, you should leave ½ of an inch between your longest toe and the front end of the shoe. There should be plenty of room in the toe box to wiggle your toes without any discomfort. At the back of the shoe, you should leave 1/8 of an inch between the back of your heel and the back end of the shoe.
Test the Shoes Out -If you think you’ve found the right pair, try on both of the shoes and take a walk in them. Don’t be afraid to test them out on different surfaces as well, like carpet and tile, to really get a feel for the shoes. If they don’t feel comfortable or “broken in” immediately, then they’re not the right shoes for you.
Closing Thoughts
Hopefully finding the right shoes will help resolve and/or prevent foot problems. If you have foot pain, we recommend that you go to a shoe store that offers professional and personalized shoe fittings. And as always, Prairie Orthopaedic & Plastic Surgery, PC, in Lincoln, NE, is here to help you with all of your foot and ankle concerns. To schedule an appointment, please call 402-489-4700!
Sources: How to Find the Right Fit Your Toes, Very Well Health