Protecting Your Feet: Shoes and Mistakes You Should Avoid
Approximately 19% of the U.S. population has an average of 1.4 foot problems each year. Foot pain is no joke and can cause all sorts of lifelong problems. Sports injuries and physical activity can cause intense foot pain, but even wearing the wrong kind of shoes can have an adverse effect.
Here are some common shoe-related mistakes that can lead to serious foot pain down the road:
- Not measuring your feet — As you age, some of your ligaments and tendons inside your foot will become looser and even reshape. If you’re sticking with the same size shoe, it could cause major damage.
- You constantly walk around home barefoot — For a lot of people, going barefoot is extremely comfortable. But walking barefoot on hardwood floors, tile, or marble can cause stress and exacerbating pain.
- You’re wearing the wrong style of shoe — There are so many shoes available on the market, but only a few styles are actually good for preventing foot pain. Keep reading and you’ll find out what styles of shoes lead to serious foot problems.
Additionally, here are some of the worst shoes for your feet:
- High heels — Heels over three- to four-inches can actually change the alignment of your body, subsequently putting extra stress on your hips, back, and legs. These high heels can cause your Achilles tendon to tighten and shorten, leading to intense pain.
- Flip flops — Flat shoes provide no support and foot support is necessary when it comes to preventing plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. Thong flip flops can also lead to hammertoe as your toes will constantly struggle to hold the foot inside the shoe.
- Pointed-toe shoes — Pointed-toe shoes can scrunch your toes together and aggravate or existing bunions and cause severe pain. Additionally, pointed-toe high heel shoes can be extremely damaging.
- Flexible shoes — Many people believe that flexible shoes are actually better for preventing foot pain, but they can actually be quite damaging. Shoes that can twist and bend aren’t supportive enough and can lead to painful situations.
The best shoes for foot health are either sneakers or wedge heels.
Don’t let foot health ruin your life. If you want to learn how to take better care of your feet or speak with an expected bunion surgeon, give Dr. Richard Moy a call right away.