You may be wearing incorrectly fitted shoes and simply not be aware of this. Whatever the circumstance, here is how you can help to ensure your shoes fit correctly.
How do you know if your shoes fit correctly?
Here are some tips to help ensure your shoes fit correctly.
- Are you in pain? Pain is the most obvious signal that your shoes are ill-fitting– does taking your shoes off give you relief? This is your biggest clue!
- Is there enough space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe? Look for around 1.5 centimetres of space ideally. Remember, your big toe may not always be your longest toe.
- Have you tested a range of surfaces? Check how your shoes move with your feet when walking on carpet, tiled areas or other surfaces– your heels shouldn't move inside your shoes on any surface.
- Have you looked at the widest part of the shoe? This should match where the ball of your foot sits, that is, the widest part just before your toes
- Have you had your feet measured by a professional? Ideally have your feet measured before buying shoes preferably at the end of the day, as this is when your feet are at their largest
If you answered ‘yes’ to one or more of the above questions, consider taking your child to see a Nearby foot and ankle clinic before you buy school shoes.
What ailments can be caused by incorrectly fitted shoes?
- Plantar fasciitis– you may experience a deep ache or shooting pain in the heel if you have plantar fasciitis.
- Bunions–can present as a swelling or deformity of the first joint of the big toe.
- Blisters– can be caused by a range of reasons, but a friction blister is usually caused by tight shoes that create irritation through the foot rubbing against the shoe.
- Metatarsalgia– this condition is when the ball of the foot becomes so inflamed it can be unbearable to stand or walk.
- Corns and calluses– can be caused by continuous friction between the foot and the shoe, which can be avoided by wearing correctly fitted shoes.
- Do the shoes have a method of attachment (like laces, buckle or Velcro)? This allows the shoe to be adjusted to meet the growing needs of your child. Avoid elastic shoes and slip-ons as these don’t support developing young feet.
If you answered ‘yes’ to all of the above questions go ahead and make your purchase, knowing that you are helping to support your child’s foot health! You can also consider visiting a Podiatry clinic near you for further assistance and guidance.
Where can you go to get shoes fitted correctly?
A podiatrist can assess whether your current shoes fit correctly and make recommendations if not. It’s a good idea to be professionally measured and fitted before buying any shoes. Don’t let poorly fitted shoes compromise your foot health. Take the time to assess your footwear choices and seek professional guidance when needed. With the help of podiatrists in Malvern and Chadstone, you can step into a future of better foot health and comfort.
