Proper shoes are one step in total foot care
By Dr. Asef
Fashion has definitely not been kind to women's feet. Men seem to perennially wear the same shoes. However, if spike heels for women are in this year, they have a hard time finding another selection. Increasingly, there is a wider variety of styles available, but both men and women need to know what to look for in getting the best fit.
The entire human body is supported by the feet and greatly influenced by the shoes placed on them. An ill-fitting shoe can cause foot, ankle, and knee or even back discomfort. Over a period of time, discomfort can lead to long-term or even permanent problems needing medical attention or surgery.
The most important thing we can do for our feet is to get proper fitting shoes. Shoe size needs to be checked regularly. Most individuals have one foot slightly larger than the other and shoes should be fit to the larger foot. The width of the thumb should fit between the tip of the longest toe (usually the second toe) and the tip of the shoe. A shoe fits best when the widest part of the sole of the foot lines up with the widest part of the sole of the shoe. Shoe widths run from AAA, AA, B, C, D, E, EE, and EEE with AAA being the narrowest. Shoes are best purchased later in the day, so they remain comfortable when feet swell.
The heel is one of the most important parts of a shoe. A large base for weight bearing, it helps to control the foot. The set of the heel is the angle of the back of the shoe to the bottom, or sole of the shoe. Any improper angling of the set can create discomfort. Lower and wider heels are more supportive and offer less chance of injury.
Not everyone can get a good fit from shoes right off the store shelf. For a number of reasons, many individuals need a device known as an orthotic, or manufactured device, to control and protect the foot as well as provide relief from foot and leg pain, back pain, leg length differences and abnormal foot function.
Literally no two people have the exact same feet, or place the same demands on their feet. Therefore, there are a variety of orthotic devices, made out of various materials for different purposes. Orthotics may be used on children, adults, athletes, elderly patients and very often, with patients following surgery or injury.
Parents may often notice that a child is turning one foot unnaturally, or that shoes are not wearing in a normal pattern. Individuals may attribute foot, leg or back pain to improperly fitting shoes. A podiatrist should be consulted to correct problems before serious situations occur as well as to reduce pain by providing extra support. The specialist can fit a proper orthotic device to the individual and greatly improve his or her daily life.
A podiatrist will first perform a history and physical. He or she will want details of the foot problem coordinated with the patient's general health. A physical exam may include an analysis of blood circulation, skin lesions, including corns and calluses, nerve function, foot deformities, toenail problems, foot structure and evaluation of patient's manner of walking.
With a proper diagnosis and regular treatment, many foot problems can be alleviated. While foot surgery can provide permanent relief for various conditions, it is not always an option. For patients with other medical problems or not able to commit to the time required for recuperation, there are many alternatives to foot surgery. A podiatrist can coordinate a conservative treatment plan that can alleviate pain and discomfort without surgery.
For more information, contact Dr. Asef at 440-953-1003.
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