Finding shoes is not only about picking the right size and style. The shape of the toe box also matters because it determines how much space your toes have at the front of the shoe. A proper toe box should allow your toes to lie naturally and move without pressure. A poor fit can cause rubbing and pinching. These problems may lead to blisters, ingrown toenails, or crooked toes.
A few checks can help you choose a better fit. Stand when trying on shoes because your feet can lengthen and widen with weight on them. Make sure there is enough room for your longest toe without pressing against the front. The toe box should also have enough width and height for your forefoot and toes. Foot shape, bunions, and hammertoes can increase your need for extra space. Shoes that feel tight across the toes are not a good choice, even if the length seems correct.
The wrong toe box can create problems slowly. Constant rubbing can produce a blister, while pressure against the toe may contribute to an ingrown toenail. Crowded toes can also encourage painful changes in toe position. If symptoms develop, a podiatrist can inspect the skin and nails, evaluate toe alignment, and look for pressure-related problems. Treatment may include blister care, ingrown toenail treatment, or recommendations for better-fitting footwear. In more advanced cases, the podiatrist can discuss treatment based on the cause.
Think of shoe shopping as an opportunity to protect your feet, not just cover them. Choose shoes that give your toes enough room without allowing your heel to slide. Replace footwear when it becomes worn or loses its support. If tight shoes are causing foot pain or changes in your toes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief tips, and additional guidance on proper shoe fit.
It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.
Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting
- Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
- Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
- Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
- Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
- Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot
The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Jackson, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
