Manage Your Foot Pain with the Right Shoes
Can’t figure out why your feet hurt? Take a good look at your shoe habits.
- Are your shoes old and worn?
- Do you wear the same pair all the time?
- Is there any arch support in the picture?
- If you have a particular foot problem, do your shoes address it?
- Are you wearing your prescription orthotics?
As our President is fond of saying, “here’s the deal:” you can often prevent or relieve foot pain simply by choosing the proper footwear.
What is proper footwear?
The best shoes fit your feet well. They are roomy in the toe box, so they don’t pinch your toes. They’re long enough to accommodate your toes and allow them to move around without restriction. Crunched toes encourage the formation of painful corns, calluses, bunions, hammertoes, and other toe deformities. For the best fit, measure your feet often – they don’t always stay the same length and width for life! Try on shoes at the end of the day when they’re likely to be at their largest from your daily activities.
In addition, proper footwear is made of quality materials such as leather or suede. Both are breathable and will conform to the shape of your foot, making them very comfortable. Avoid vinyl and other man-made materials – they make your feet sweat more and can promote the growth of fungus.
Finally, the right shoes offer excellent support. They’re firm in the heel counter and have arch support that fits your needs. For example, if you have high arches, you may benefit from shoes with extra cushioning in the arch area.
Your shoe choices may be contributing to your toe, arch, or heel pain. Dr. Kenneth R. Wilhelm, our board-certified podiatrist, can help you figure out if your foot pain derives from improper, inappropriate, or worn-out shoes. Custom orthotics, molded specifically for your feet, are sometimes the simple solution you need to relieve your pain. For excellence in podiatric care in Fairfax County, make an appointment with Dr. Wilhelm. Call Clifton Foot & Ankle Center in Centreville, Virginia at (703) 996-3000 or contact us online.
