How to Find the Right Shoes for Your Feet

How to Find the Right Shoes for Your Feet!

All feet were created differently. Some people have flat feet and some people have smelly feet . Other people have wide feet, or bunions and painful feet . Even if you have perfect feet, it is important to make sure that you always put your best foot forward. To make sure that you are buying shoes that fit your feet properly, it is important to keep a few things in mind.

Basic Tips: 

1. Always try on shoes at night – your feet are larger at night than they are in the morning, so to make sure that you are buying shoes that fit properly, go shopping in the evening.
2. Avoid shoes with heels greater than 2" – Sorry ladies! Once in a while heels are okay, but for an everyday shoe, try to keep the heels under 2"
3. Don't settle for an OK fit – Everyone's feet are different, and there is a shoe out there that is made for your foot. Take your time and try on multiple different brands and styles until you find the most comfortable shoe for your foot.
4. If you have any special foot conditions, always consult your podiatrist – to discuss the proper footgear for your feet. Your podiatrist may also be able to recommend inserts, like a Powerstep or Custom Orthotic to help your feet maintain comfort in any kind of footwear.

What Shoes Should I Buy If I have Bunions? 

• Wear a shoe that does not rub on the bunion – try a style that is a little larger and wider in the front, and avoid pointed toe shoes
• Choose shoes that do not have seams on the inside of the big toe area – this can rub on the affected area and cause discomfort
• Shoes that are made of a softer material are best – this allows for some stretching, and can be more comfortable than a stiff leather

It can often be very difficult to find shoes that will not cause pain and discomfort if you have a bunion. Padding the affected area can often make it worse by causing more friction in the shoe. Without proper treatment, the bunion will only get worse and become more painful. If you would like to do something about your painful bunion - Call Associated Podiatrists with five convenient locations in Fairfield County and Long Island, and find relief today!

Proper Shoe Fit For Kids – By Dr. Evan Vieira, DPM, AACFAS 

1. "As with adults, children's shoes should be fitted at the end of the day to accommodate for the normal swelling that happens in all of us.
2. Both feet should be measured in the store, while standing, with a brannock device (any good children's shoe store will have one). If there is a discrepancy, size to the larger foot.
3. Don't size up! It is tempting to try and plan for that coming growth spurt, but purchasing shoes that don't fit well can cause blisters and foot pain as well as trip- ping and falling.
4. Comfort! As soon as the child puts them on and walks around in the store, the shoes should feel good. If they do not, then they are not the shoe for your child. Good shoes, especially sneakers, should not require any "break-in period."
5. Try more than one pair from more than one manufacturer. It is true that different companies can run wide or larger than others, even in the same size shoe. Everyone has a unique foot type and shape that may be better served by the cut of a particular manufacturer.
6. If your child wears orthotics, make sure the shoe's insert can be easily removed without damage to its construct. Bring them to the store with you."

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About the Author: 

Dr. Evan A. Vieira, DPM, AACFAS joined Associated Podiatrists in 2011, after completeing his residnecy in reconstructive foot surgery at the North Shore Long Islnad Jewish Health System, where he served as Chief Resident in his final year. Dr. Vieira is currently taking new patients in our Roslyn and Huntington office locations, and is available for surgical consultation by appointment.