It might be time to consider the type of shoes you are wearing if you find yourself suffering with foot pain on a regular basis. Unfortunately, we often underestimate the importance of wearing properly fitted shoes and ill-fitting shoes can be the cause of many problems, from foot pain and discomfort to serious health issues.
Shoes do not have to be expensive to be considered good quality, in other words, expensive does not always mean good quality. The most important factor is the fit of the shoe on the foot. Getting measured regularly to ensure you are buying shoes that fit your current foot size and shape is key. A BioPed clinician can help you navigate and clarify the footwear that is best for you. They will help you do more by avoiding the 6 most common conditions associated with poorly fitted shoes.
The 6 most common foot conditions associated with ill-fitting shoes are:
- Ingrown Toenails: Ingrown toenails occur when the sides of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and sometimes infection. Tight shoes that squeeze the toes can exacerbate this problem. To prevent ingrown toenails, ensure your shoes provide enough room for your toes to move freely. Your foot should not bulge over the sides of the shoe, and you should not be able to pinch excess fabric. You want the shoe to fit snugly but comfortably.
- Foot Ulcers: A foot ulcer is an open wound, often seen in patients with diabetes. Improper-fitting shoes can increase the risk of ulcers by creating friction and pressure points on the foot. People who have diabetes often have poor circulation and peripheral neuropathy (altered protective sensation). People with diabetes may have a hard time healing from foot wounds and therefore it is important to do regular foot checks and always wear properly fitted shoes, that are too tight or loose. A loose shoe can cause the foot to move around the shoe and cause friction, which can lead to skin breakdown. Additionally, wearing padded socks and considering custom foot orthotics from BioPed can provide extra protection and comfort.
- Heel Pain: Heel pain is a general term and can include conditions like plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. These common issues can be linked to inadequate arch support and improper footwear fit. Always look for shoes that have adequate arch support that will cushion and help distribute pressure evenly across the entire foot. Custom foot orthotics can also provide relief and prevent future pain. Consider speaking to a BioPed lower limb clinician today.
- Bunions: Bunions are bony bumps that form on the side of the big toe joint (at the base of the big toe). They are exacerbated by wearing tight, narrow shoes, and the often run in families. Bunions can cause pain and swelling in the join and even on the skin’s surface, making it difficult to walk comfortably. To help prevent bunions from forming, or to slow down the progression of them becoming worse, choose a shoe with a wide toe box and avoid too high of a heel. Heels will put extra pressure on the front of the foot and toes. Custom foot orthotics are effective in correcting muscle imbalance around the toes and will control abnormal forces in and around the foot. There are devices such as toe spacers, bunion aligners and bunion guards that can help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with bunions, such as in between the toes from pressure.
- Toenail Fungus: Toenail fungus thrives in warm, dark and moist environments. To reduce the risk of fungal infections, wear shoes made from breathable materials and wear moisture-wicking socks. Keeping your feet dry and clean is crucial. Disinfecting shoes and changing socks on a regular basis will help reduce the risk of infection and reinfection. Our Advanced Footcare Nurses and Registered Chiropodists can help with debulking fungal toenails so topical medicated treatments work better. At BioPed, we carry OTC nail treatments and a disinfectant spray, and when used in combination, help fight infection and prevent it from happening again. Ill-fitting shoes that are too tight can injure toenails and make fungal infections more likely.
- Hammertoes: A hammertoe is a toe deformity when a toe becomes bent at the middle joint. This is a common condition and most often affects the second toe. It can be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight and not long enough, and by an imbalance of the muscles in and around the toes. Hammertoes can cause pain and make it challenging to find comfortable footwear, because the middle of the toe sticks up and can rub on the top of the shoebox. To lessen risk for developing hammertoes, always choose shoes with adequate space for toes. For relief from hammertoe discomfort, there are toe sleeves, padding and cushions that can help to protect and possibly straighten a bent toe. Custom foot orthotics are effective in reducing the need for toes to grip the ground to stabilize the foot.
Now that we’ve looked at different foot conditions, let’s dive into the ins and outs of ‘properly fitted shoes’ to avoid possible foot pain. Things to consider are:
- Have your feet measured: your feet can change shape and length over time. Get both feet measured to ensure that you have the correct length and width from the start.
- Correct size: Ensure there is enough space (about a thumb’s width) between your longest toe and the front of the shoe to prevent pinching, blisters, callus, etc.
- Proper width: The shoe should fit comfortably around the sides and ball of your foot without squeezing or causing discomfort, allowing enough room for the toes to spread naturally.
- Secure heel cup: The heel should fit snugly into the heel cup with minimal slippage, which helps provide stability and prevents blisters.
- Adequate arch support: Look for shoes that match the natural contours of your foot and with some added arch support in the shoe liner. This will help to reduce strain on your feet.
- Removable insole: A removable insole allows you to adjust it or replace it with a custom foot orthotic, ensuring personalized comfort and optimal support.
- Cushioning: Good cushioning helps absorb shock, reduces pressure on joints and hopefully prevent discomfort during prolonged standing or walking. Ensure that you have the right amount of cushioning for the activity you plan on doing.
At BioPed we are dedicated to helping you stay active and comfortable. Whether you are dealing with foot issues or trying to prevent issues, our team of Pedorthists, Chiropodists, and Footcare Nurses are here to assist you. Remember, well-fitted shoes are more than just a fashion choice, they are a crucial part of your overall health and well-being. Let’s keep you on your feet and doing more in life!
Book your complementary Assessment with BioPed today!
At BioPed, we keep you moving! Our Pedorthists, Chiropodists, and Medical Footcare Nurses work closely together to ensure that you receive the best solution and care possible when preventing or treating any foot, ankle, or leg condition.
Since 1981 BioPed Footcare & Orthotics has proudly helped more than 1 million Canadians. We provide custom orthotic solutions, custom compression solutions, fitted bracing solutions, fitted and custom footwear, and medical footcare solutions, including surgical and non-surgical solutions.
If you are suffering with any kind of lower limb or foot pain, book a complementary assessment today and get back to doing more of the things you love in life! Start by finding your local Clinic here https://www.bioped.com/locations/
