Wearing the right running shoes can help prevent pain and injury by supporting your feet where needed. A proper fit of running shoes starts with choosing a pair that matches your foot shape, length, and width. The toe box should allow enough room to wiggle your toes without pressing them together, while the heel should feel snug without slipping. Your longest toe should have about half an inch of space at the front of the shoe. The midfoot area should hold your arch securely but not feel tight across the sides. It is important to try on shoes using the socks you would normally run in, and later in the day when your feet are naturally more swollen. Shoes that are too tight or loose may lead to blisters, bruised toenails, or more serious foot problems. A podiatrist can help assess your foot shape and gait to recommend proper footwear. If you experience foot pain from running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.
It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida Foot & Ankle Group, P.A.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.
Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting
- Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
- Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
- Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
- Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
- Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot
The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Debary, Lake Mary, and Orlando, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
