The shoes you wear have a major effect on foot pain and the development of foot-related problems. With the increasing trend toward online shopping, it’s not uncommon for people to buy shoes that don’t fit properly, because there is no opportunity to try them on prior to purchase. If you are plagued by aching feet, calluses, or bunions, online shopping may not be the best way to buy footwear. Read on for how to pick the right shoes to avoid foot pain.
Picking the Right Shoes
Here are a few useful tips to help you pick out the right pair of shoes and avoid any unnecessary foot pain that the wrong pair might cause:
- Always try before you buy. There’s no better way to know if a shoe is comfortable than walking around in it.
- Avoid buying online unless you know the specifics of the brand’s sizing chart. Shoe sizes can vary based on the type of shoe as well as the brand that makes it.
- Ask if the salesperson can measure the length and width of both of your feet. They can then give you an accurate size based on what shoe you’d like.
- When trying on a shoe, make sure your toes aren’t pinched or overlapping each other.
- There should be about half an inch between your toe and the front of the shoe when you’re standing up.
- Shoes with short or no heels are more comfortable and less damaging on your feet.
- Your heel should fit comfortably in the back and not slide out when you walk.
- Shoes with removable insoles are recommended, as you can add orthotics or cushioned insoles for comfort.
