Why is a proper fit important?
Our feet take a great deal of punishment every day. They
support our weight and carry us from place to place. Many
people do not give much thought to shoe selection. If you
consider only style and not fit when buying shoes, you may
cause problems with your feet. Shoes need to be fitted for
the size and shape of the feet and for the activity.
What are the guidelines for choosing shoes that fit
properly?
Eight guidelines for choosing shoes that fit properly are:
- Once a year measure both feet by length and width. Foot
size changes with age. Also, both feet may not be
exactly the same size. Measure your feet at the middle
or end of the day to account for normal swelling. Select
the shoe size that fits your largest foot. If necessary,
use an insole to adjust the size for the smaller foot.
Be aware that shoe sizes vary from brand to brand.
- When you try new shoes, wear the kind of socks or
stockings that you intend to wear with them. Avoid socks
and stockings that bunch up or are too tight.
- Test shoes by standing on one foot at a time. Wiggle
your toes and stand on your tiptoes. Shoes should bend
at the same place that your foot bends. Walk or run a
few steps in your shoes. Make sure the heel does not
slip.
- Never buy a shoe thinking it needs to be stretched out
or "broken in" before it is comfortable. Purchase a shoe
that is comfortable right from the start.
- Be sure that you have one-half inch of space from the
end of your longest toe to the tip of the shoe.
- Make sure that the widest part of your foot comfortably
fits the widest part of the shoe.
- Buy athletic and work shoes that meet the stability,
support, protection, and cushioning requirements for
what you do.
- Beware of high-heeled shoes. Women are at risk for
developing a variety of foot and posture problems as a
result of wearing high heels. High-heeled shoes should
not have a heel higher than 2 and 1/4 inches. Low-heeled
shoes with plenty of room in the toe are safer and
healthier.
Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a
replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
HIA File BJM3180F.HTM Release 9.0/2006
Copyright © 2006 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subsidiaries. All Rights Reserved.
Copyright © 2006 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subsidiaries. All Rights Reserved.