The Right Shoe

Like weight, many people think their shoe size should be as small as possible - the smaller the better. In addition, people often think that the size their feet have attained by age 18, 20, or even 30 will remain the same. This is untrue. In many individuals, the foot will change in size later in life, regardless of age.

An increase in foot size can occur for several reasons. Adaptation to weight gain and loss, muscular imbalance, and pregnancy may permanently change foot size. This is probably due to changes in the ligaments, tendons, and muscles within the foot, followed by subtle changes in the joints and a spreading of the bones in the foot. The result is a normal enlargement of the foot which may be so gradual that sometimes it goes unnoticed.

Individuals who spend all day on their feet, or who are very active with exercise are especially susceptible. A high percentage of athletic people are found wearing shoes that are too small.

It is not uncommon to find that many structural problems, such as low back, knee, or hip pain, are related to the fact that the person is wearing shoes one half or even a whole size too small. Even though the feet feel fine, a shoe that is too small can affect other areas.

When buying shoes:

- Each time you buy shoes, have both feet measured standing. Walk on a hard surface to feel the fit.

- Even if the size feels good, try on the next half size larger to see whether that feels just as good, if not better.

- Continue trying on larger sizes until you find the one that is too big. Then go back a half size, and this may be the best be for your foot.

- If your feet are two different sizes, fit the larger foot. If the difference is a size or more, you may need to buy two pairs of shoes.

- Shoes with laces generally offer the best support.