If The Shoe Fits…
Wearing comfortable shoes that fit prevent many ailments of the feet. Get a proper fit by considering these tips!
Feet change and grow larger with age, so always have your feet measured when buying shoes. The best time of the day to measure your feet is at the end of the day when your feet are largest.
Most of us have one foot that is larger. Fit your shoe to the larger foot.
Allow at least 3/8- to ½-inch space for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when standing.
The ball of your foot should fit comfortably in the widest part of the shoe.
Don’t buy shoes that feel too tight and expect them to stretch to fit.
Your heel should fit so that the shoe does not ride up and down on your heel when you walk.
Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right.
The upper part of the shoes should be made of a soft, flexible material. Soles should not be slippery. Thick soles cushion your feet when walking on hard surfaces. Low-heeled shoes are more comfortable, safer, and less damaging than higher-heeled shoes.
It’s normal for people to experience some foot problems as they age. Problems with feet can be the first sign of more serious medical conditions, particularly among older adults. Health problems, such as arthritis, diabetes, nerve issues, and circulatory disorders, may first be manifested in the feet. That is why it is important to pay attention to your feet and seek medical attention as soon as you notice a problem. Ask AW Health Care to look at your feet. We can help! In Missouri: (314) 726-5600 and in Illinois: (618) 344-8800.
Be Kind
Inspect feet daily, especially if you are diabetic. If you can’t see your feet adequately, ask for help.
Avoid going barefoot. Wear soft leather supportive shoes that have rubber soles and heels.
Keep feet clean, warm and dry. Apply lotion to dry feet and powder to moist feet.
Trim toenails straight across, not down into the corners. Don’t cut nails too short.
Improve circulation. Don’t sit with your knees crossed. Avoid circular garters and elastic-band hose.
Ask first!
What about orthotics? Orthotics can improve foot function, offer arch support, and act as a shock absorber. Ask your podiatrist first.
I can’t cut my nails properly? Go to the podiatrist or ask AW Health Care for help.
Will commercial corn pads or medicines help? Check with the podiatrist first, because these can burn and irritate the skin.
Don’t Suffer With Your Feet
See your podiatrist regularly. Prevention and maintenance are the best sources of healthy feet.
Your podiatrist can help you with corns, calluses, warts, ingrown toenails, bunions, spurs, hammertoes and fungal or bacterial infections like athlete’s foot. If you have pain anywhere on your feet, you should check it out with the podiatrist to avoid potential, more serious problems.
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