Proper Shoe Fit Can Prevent Foot Problems

Foot problems affect most, if not all, people at some point. For example, 71% of elderly in one study reported foot problems with 39% consulting their physician about the problems. Note that foot care for diabetics and other people with more serious conditions should see a physician for treatment.

There is one general recommendation that can ease discomfort associated with many foot problems: buy shoes that fit. Poorly fitting shoes not only make symptoms worse, they can sometimes cause the problem in the first place. Properly fitting shoes will be comfortable to wear right out of the box; they don't need to be "broken in."

Try on shoes at the end of the day when feet are largest. Try shoes on both feet while standing and walking. There should be a space of one-half inch between the end of the shoe and the tip of the longest toe; allow up to one inch of space in athletic shoes. Be sure that shoes are wide enough across the ball of the foot, but the heel should fit snugly. Lace-up shoes allow for more adjustment, particularly for a proper fit across the instep.

Each year, Medical College of Wisconsin physicians care for more than 180,000 patients, representing nearly 500,000 patient visits. Medical College physicians practice at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital, the Milwaukee VA Medical Center, and many other hospitals and clinics in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin.