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Fall 2009 - Shoe Shopping Tips |
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Having a well fitted shoe is important to avoid painful foot problems. If you are a diabetic or have problems with neuropathy (lack of feeling) in your feet it is very important that your shoes fit well. This can help to avoid possible friction that can lead to a sore or a wound. For our female patients that enjoy wearing high heels, please remember that wearing a very high heel shoe and that has a narrow toe will constrict the foot. This can cause pain or deformities. Wearing a lower heel and a rounded toe shoe can help to reduce this problem. If you do wear high heels during the day try to switch shoes through out the day. Putting on a tennis shoe or lower heel shoe to commute between offices or at lunchtime can help to reduce pressure on the foot structure. To help avoid foot problems please consider these tips when you are purchasing new shoes; - Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen.
- Stand up when you are fitting the shoe. Your foot will be longer and wider when you stand with your weight on your foot instead of sitting.
- Fit the shoe to the larger foot.
- Pick a pair of shoes for how they fit not by the standard size. Sizes vary between brands and styles. Don't rely on a set number to determine your size.
- A correct fit should allow for one fingers width-about 1½ inch, between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. The ball of the foot should fit snugly into the widest part of the shoe without feeling tight.
- Walk around in the store with both shoes on and make sure that they feel good.
- Don't buy a shoe and hope for them to stretch to fit your foot.
For more shoe guides or if you have questions on correct shoe gear please feel free to discuss this topic with one of our Physicians at a scheduled appointment time.
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