Are Your Shoes Causing Damage?

Did you know that seventy-five percent of Americans will experience some type of foot condition during their lifetimes? That number is astonishing! For many, those problems could be brought on by an unsuspecting cause: their shoes.

How Shoes Can Cause Pain

Shoes that fit improperly or are poorly designed can cause foot pain and lead to conditions that require treatment. Shoes that are too narrow can lead to ingrown toenails, bunions, athlete’s foot and hammertoe. If you have flat feet, wearing shoes without the proper support can lead to developing plantar fasciitis. Blisters can form if you wear shoes without moisture wicking socks designed to protect your skin against abrasion, or if you wear new shoes for an extended period before breaking them in.

Protect Your Feet

There are ways you can protect your feet from pain and damage. To prevent athlete’s foot, keep your feet dry and wear clean socks. If your feet get wet, change your socks and shoes quickly. Avoid going barefoot in shower rooms or around the pool, which are breeding grounds for fungus.

In order to avoid bunions, make sure your shoes are not too narrow. Narrow shoes put pressure on the joint where the foot meets the big toe. If this area is compressed for extended periods of time, a bunion can develop.

Have your feet measured to ensure you are wearing the correct size. Your feet change over time, and the size can be affected by things like pregnancy, weight loss or gain or some types of inflammatory conditions.  

A Podiatrist Can Help

When it comes to protecting your feet, a podiatrist is your best option. Dr. Mogul has been in practice for over 25 years, so he has the experience you can depend on to examine, diagnose and treat your foot condition. He can also suggest the type of shoe you need to protect your feet from developing the painful conditions we have discussed. If you are experiencing foot pain, or if you want to prevent foot pain from developing, call the offices of Dr. Stuart Mogul today to schedule a consultation.