Choosing the right shoes is one of the best decisions you can make to keep your feet happy and healthy. The many benefits of properly-supported feet radiate to your knees, hips, and back, so make choosing the correct footwear for work, sporting, and leisure pursuits a high priority.
Some tips for choosing the right shoes include the following:
The necessary support for your arch and ball—The metatarsal dome in the ball area of your foot needs proper support to equalize imbalances, so always choose shoes with good support in that area. This will help prevent nerve pinching and conditions like sesamoiditis and neuromas. Sturdy, well-fitted shoes with the correct arch support are essential for optimal foot and overall health.
Breathable fibers—Natural fibers like canvas and leather, and man-made fibers like Gore-Tex are flexible and breathable and allow for moisture evaporation. This is essential since your feet have many sweat glands, and keeping your feet dry prevents blisters, rashes, and infections from fungi and bacteria. Infections are a major cause of foot complications, especially in patients who have diabetes, where even a minor cut can go unnoticed and lead to an ulcer and possible amputation.
Deep heel cups—A deep heel cup in will surround your heel, increase stability and ensure the best support by keeping your heel from moving from side to side.
Your podiatrist can perform a computerized gait analysis to determine your foot type and what shoe is right for you. If you would like help choosing the right footwear, consult with our board-certified podiatrists at Foot and Ankle Center of Fort Lee, LLC. The center offers convenient locations in Fort Lee NJ, Ringwood NJ, Flushing Queens NY, Woodhaven NY, Brooklyn NY, and Forest Hills NY. Contact us at (201) 363-9844 and schedule an appointment today!
