How do you feel about shoe shopping? For some it’s a minor addiction. For others, especially those with foot pain, it can be an agonizing task. Since your feet are with you for life, it makes sense to choose shoes that provide them with adequate support. Here are some tips that will help you find shoes that your feet will love:
Have a salesperson measure your feet. Did you know that the size of your feet changes with age? Did you also know that your feet are bigger later in the day due to swelling? It is important that you have a salesperson measure your feet each time you buy new shoes and that you go shoe shopping in the afternoon or evening. If one of your feet is slightly bigger than the other, go with the bigger size.
Walk around in the shoes before you buy them. Before selecting a pair of shoes, wear them around the store. Wiggle your toes and make sure that there is enough space for them. Are they too narrow? Do they pinch at all? Does either foot feel compressed? The idea of ‘breaking in’ your shoes is a myth; if they don’t fit you in the store, don’t buy them.
Pay attention to the soles of your shoes. The soles of your shoes are also very important. Are the soles thick enough to protect your feet if you step on a sharp object? Do they provide enough cushioning? How do the shoes feel on different surfaces? The level support that you get from your shoes will make a huge difference in how your feet feel at the end of the day.
Save the fancy shoes for special occasions. The problem with all of this is that practical shoes simply don’t go with some of your gorgeous outfits! Don’t despair! You can still wear those knock-out heels when you go out or your flip flops to the beach; they just shouldn’t be your everyday shoes.
We should all make an effort to take care of our feet and buying the right shoes is a great place to start. If you experience pain in your feet or you want to learn how to take care of them better, call us! We can help!
