Happy Feet Start With Happy Shoes

by guest blogger Shannon Lochwood Your feet are one of the body parts that you use the most. They support you and get you where you need to go; however, despite how important the feet are, they are often abused. So many people don’t take proper care of their feet. I’m not just talking about pedicures, soaking and elevating them; I am talking about the shoes you wear.

Shoes are so important to health of your feet. Not only do they protect them, but they also support them. When unsupportive shoes are worn, not only do the feet suffer, but so do so many other parts of the body, including the legs and the back. If you aren’t wearing the right shoes, you could really be putting your health and comfort at risk. Happy feet – and legs and back – really do start off with happy shoes. So, how do you go about choosing the shoes that will make your feet happy? Here are some pointers that will allow you to find the right shoes for you. Things to Avoid To start, there are certain types of shoes that you should avoid right off the bat. Shoes that are too tight, have heels that are too high and that aren’t supportive (a flimsy sole, for example), will undoubtedly lead to pain and other health issues. Issues such as plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the soles of the feet, and other painful conditions (corns, warts, etc), can also develop as a result of wearing the wrong shoes. As such, it is important to choose shoes that offer support and that fit your feet the right way. Measure Your Feet The size of your feet change as you grow older; they usually get bigger and/or wider. Make sure that you have your feet professionally measured once a year to ensure that you are getting the right shoe size for your feet. Shop at the Right Time Shop for new shoes at the end of the day. Your feet are the largest at this point of the day because they have swelled as a result of pressure. Buying shoes that fit your feet at the end of the day will ensure that your feet are comfortable all day. Stand Up and Walk When trying on shoes, make sure you stand up and walk around. You need to see how they feel and how they will support your foot. You can’t do this without standing up and walking around before buying. With these tips in mind, you can find the right shoes for your feet and ensure that your feet – and the rest of your body – remain comfortable and happy. Shannon Lochwood is a writer who lives in California. She has a passion for helping people and loves to write about health. In her free time she stays active at her Crossfit gym and loves to cook healthy meals. http://shannonlochwood.jux.com/