Useful Tips Regarding Footwear
- Trying on new shoes: Poorly fitting shoes are one of the main causes of major foot problems today. It is best to find a shoe that best matches the shape of your foot. The best way to do this is to stand on a piece of paper (your foot changes shape when you stand up) and have someone draw the shape of your foot onto the paper. Take this template (one for each foot) with you when buying shoes. Holding a shoe over this template will guide you as to which shoe is likely to fit best. If you have swollen feet the middle of the day is the best time to fit shoes. Try on both shoes and walk a few paces to see if they rub or pinch anywhere. If you use orthotics, make sure you wear them when trying on new shoes.
- The collar around the ankle and heel should be soft, padded and comfortable.
- The seams of the shoe should be minimal and not jut out to leave crease marks on the feet. This is especially important in the ‘High-Risk’ feet of diabetics and Rheumatoid Arthritis.
- The heel of the shoe needs to be low, i.e. not higher than 2.5cm (one inch). Never wear high-heeled shoes as these are specially designed to cause major foot problems in later life, if not sooner (bunions are a good example).
- A good heel cup will help prevent splitting of the skin of the heel and also prevents the heel slipping up and down the back of the shoe, which can cause friction and blisters.
- The function of the sole of the shoe is to provide grip and comfort while walking, be shock-absorbing and reasonably flexible, and be durable. Soles made of polyurethane are probably best as this material affords the shoe all these characteristics. Soles should not be overly thin or flexible. This is especially important for older feet.
- The toe-box of the shoe needs to be deep, wide and long enough to prevent pressure on the front of the foot and toes. It should follow the shape of the foot and there should be room for the toes to wiggle. Allow 1cm (1/2 inch) of space between the front end of the shoe and the longest toe.
- Shoes that have a fastening system (laces, Velcro, buckle) are preferable to slip-ons. Slippers should have a Velcro strap and heel cup.
- Uppers. Rubber and plastic shoes do not breathe. Leather or other breathable fabrics are much better in allowing heat and moisture exchange to take place. Leather uppers offer good protection and are hard-wearing. Fabric uppers may be better for sensitive feet. Some fabrics, such as Elastane, are stretchy, strong, tear-resistant, crease resistant, light and comfortable, but do not allow breathing.
- All shoes can become a breeding ground for germs, making them smell bad. Air them for a day or two between wearing them again, so alternate wearing different pairs of shoes. Shoe sanitising sprays can prevent foot infections and bad smells. Shoe sanitising sprays are widely available. Trainers should be washed weekly and be allowed to dry thoroughly before being worn.
- Socks. Always wear socks or hosiery when you wear shoes. One reason for this because they reduce friction, blistering and hard skin. Another reason is that sweat, bacteria and fungi from the feet can be washed away, leaving the shoe relatively protected. Cotton socks are generally best. Look for socks that have a smooth seam. If seams are causing irritation or rubbing, turn the socks inside-out. The top of the sock should not be so tight as to constrict the skin of the calf because this interferes with the drainage of blood and lymph the foot. This is even more important when feet are swollen. An example of a good make of sock for swollen feet is the Fuller Fitting Sock by Cosyfeet.
- Silver is anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, thermodynamic and anti-static. Silver socks can help prevent infections, help regulate foot temperature, e.g. in Raynaud’s Disease, and can also prevent blistering and bad odour. Silver socks are generally available on-line, in sports shops and in some pharmacies.
Medical Disclaimer
Every word on this site is provided for information only. This information is NOT a substitute for professional medical care by any medical professional. ALWAYS check with your GP or Consultant if you have any concerns about your condition or treatment.
“Foot Respect” is not responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for ANY form of damages whatsoever resulting from the use (or misuse) of information contained in or implied by the information on this site.
