the singing podiatrist.com

the foot stuff

shoes

Shoes are the most underrecognized cause of foot problems (in my opinion) and people are often most resistant to changing their shoes in order to eliminate foot pain and problems. Some people in fact avoid seeing a podiatrist for their foot problems because they know that their shoes (high heels usually) will be identified as a major cause of their foot problem. It's really up to you - it's a very individual decision to make regarding foot fashion versus comfort. Usually a happy medium can be reached.

High heel shoes can cause bunions, shortened achilles tendons, hammertoes, pain in the ball of the foot, ankle instability, low back pain, knee pain, corns and ingrown toenails. The higher the heel, the worse the resulting problems. A heel of 3/4 inch or less provides the best biomechanical positioning for the foot and lower extremity. If you've been wearing high heels (greater than one inch) for many years you may find it very difficult to switch to lower heel shoes. It can be done though - just be patient and make the change gradually.

Flat shoes can be damaging as well. Some sandals and dress shoes have too low of a heel. Again, look for something between 1/2 and 3/4 inch (difference between the heel and the ball of the shoe). Usually, over time every person knows what types of shoes work well. Stick to what works for you. Often, you need an objective opinion to help you determine if your heel height may be contributing to foot or lower extremity problems.

Platforms are a happy medium. If the shoe is high all over, you eliminate the problem of high heels. Of course, you may seriously hurt yourself if you fall off them.

Optimal Shoe Characteristics
1/2 to 3/4 inch heel
rubber sole (as thick as possible)
deep and round toebox
laces or a buckle to hold the shoe onto the foot
runners, walkers or hikers are the best shoes for most activities, including walking

Beware: Shoe manufacturing companies want to sell their shoes. They may tell you that you can play basketball in pumps. They may tell you anything they want to. You must use your common sense. Go to a reputable athletic shoe store for athletic shoes. You usually get what you pay for when it comes to athletic shoes. These days you're looking at spending over $100 for a good pair of athletic shoes. They should last one to two years.

Shoe Trivia
The heavier the shoe, the more likely you will experience anterior shin pain when you first start wearing them.

The stiffer the sole, the more likely you will experience calf soreness or irritation in the ball of the foot initially.

Leather sole shoes provide no shock absorption. You may have leg, knee, hip or back pain as a result.