When Choosing Right Shoes, Comfort Trumps Looks: MD Podiatrist

According to Dan Michaels, DPM, a board-certified podiatric surgeon, only a small percentage of the population is born with foot problems. Most often, it’s neglect or a lack of proper foot care – including ill-fitting shoes – that causes the problems. “Shopping for shoes is best done in the afternoon. Your feet tend to swell a little during the day, and it’s best to buy shoes to fit them then. When shopping for shoes, try them on both feet; many people have one foot larger than the other, and it’s best to fit the larger one. And, when you try them on, walk in the shoes to make sure they feel right and there is no pain.”
 
 
“Your foot size can change as you grow older. Have both of your feet measured every time you purchase shoes, and do it while you’re standing. Shoe sizes vary by brand and style, so don’t select shoes only by the size marked inside the shoe. Select a shoe that conforms as closely as possible to the shape of your foot. Choose a shoe that has proper heel support. If the shoe has a flat bottom, check the inside to see if the heel is built up. A shoe that has proper support should only bend where the toes are, and should not twist like a rag,” says Dr. Michaels.