If the Shoe Fits.

If the Shoe Fits…

Dr. Kayla Emter, DPM

Once upon a time, many years ago, I worked in the shoe section of a sports store. A good portion of people would come in with improper fitting shoes. Fast forward a few years past medical school and residency, and I now cringe, as a Podiatrist, knowing the effects of ill-fitting shoes. As many know, the advent of online shopping is here, henceforth, shoes are not being tried on prior to purchasing. With that being said, shoes can vary in size from brand to brand and even within the same brand when they are made at different factories. The following are some tips to help prevent discomfort, calluses, blisters, injuries and deformities:

1. Try shoes on at the end of the day when the feet are at their biggest.

2. Bring your own socks that you’d wear in the particular shoe you are shopping for, as well as any custom inserts.

3. If the shoe is not comfortable in the store, it will not be comfortable at work or on the court/track/field. Be true to yourself, in other words, just because the shoe is cute/cool doesn’t mean it’s the best option.

4. Have both feet measured in width and length and accommodate the bigger foot.

5. Walk and jog around the store. Be cognizant of comfort, that the arch hits you appropriately, and that your heel does not slip.

6. Give yourself enough room. Don’t be self-conscious of big feet and don’t try to squeeze into a shoe that you like because your size is not available. The width of a thumb nail should be available at the front of the shoe. For width, make sure your toes can spread and do not feel squished.

In the world of aching feet and improper fitting shoes, everyone followed Dr. Emter’s tips and people were more comfortable, much happier and they all lived happily ever after.

If your in need of some proper fitting shoes check out Happy Soles Footwear located at 1802 Allison Dr.  Bismarck, ND 58501

Contact Us

Dakota Foot & Ankle Clinic

Monday:

8:30 am-4:30 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-4:30 pm

Wednesday:

8:30 am-4:30 pm

Thursday:

8:30 am-4:30 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-4:30 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed