Think of the big decisions you make in life: where to attend college, what career field to pursue, whether to watch The Walking Dead or House of Cards on Netflix tonight—well, perhaps not that. Someone once said that our lives are the sum of the choices we make. You could say something similar about your health. Making good choices to support your body, like choosing the right athletic shoe, helps you stay healthy and happy.
Selecting the ideal shoe may not be the most important decision you ever make, but it does matter. Your footwear directly influences your foot function and comfort. It helps prevent avoidable injuries and supports your feet through your activities. First, identify how they’ll be used. Hiking boots, soccer cleats, and running shoes are all fabricated differently to match the strain of the individual activities. Your foot gear should support you in the unique ways your athletic endeavors require. You should also measure your feet. Checking them when they are at their largest—the late afternoon—allows you to accommodate any swelling you may experience throughout the day and adjust sizes if needed.
Always try on shoes before you buy them. You need to check the fit. Make sure you have enough room for your toes to wiggle without bumping the end of the shoe. Walk around the store to check the comfort. Footwear shouldn’t need “breaking in” to feel comfortable. Your heel shouldn’t slip out of the back when you rise up on your toes or walk around, either. Also, make sure there’s sufficient arch support, or at least room for your orthotics.
If you’re not sure how to fit athletic shoes, or are experiencing pain when you’re active, contact us at Absolute Foot Care Specialists in Las Vegas for more information or an appointment. We can help you find shoes to fit your feet, as well as diagnose and treat any malady of the lower limbs. Don’t make the mistake of choosing any old shoe and reap painful consequences later! Call (702) 839-2010 or use the online contact form to reach us.
