Our feet are the foundation of our health, and choosing the right footwear for different activities is a vital part of maintaining foot health. Running, walking, weightlifting, and even going about daily activities, demands supportive footwear to prevent pain, discomfort, and long-term foot issues.

“Our feet are complex, in that that have numerous bones, muscles, and ligaments that all work together to support our body wait and help us move,” says Robert Martin, DPM, Riverside podiatrist.

There are four key reasons why wearing the correct footwear is important in maintaining foot health:

1. Provides Support: Supportive shoes help prevent issues such as heel pain, fallen arches, and ankle instability. Shoes with adequate support have cushioned insoles which help maintain foot alignment and reduce the stress on your feet.
2. Prevents injuries: “Shoes that don’t fit well or are not supportive enough can increase our risk of common injuries like sprains or stress fractures,” says Dr. Martin, “Injuries can sideline us from our favorite activities, and wearing proper footwear is a good way to help prevent them.”
3. Enhances comfort: Nobody wants to be walking around in uncomfortable footwear. When our shoes fit well, it allows us to move around and exercise freely without having to worry about our feet. Shoes that pinch or rub can cause blisters and even painful swelling or inflammation.
4. Accommodates Foot Type: “No two feet are the same, so one type of shoe may work really well for one person’s foot type, and that same type of shoe may not be the best choice for someone else,” says Dr. Martin.

Now, when it comes to selecting the right footwear, there are several things you can do to make sure you are choosing the best shoe for you:

1. Get fitted by a professional. Trained professionals can measure your feet to make sure you are purchasing the right size shoe.
2. Consider your activities. You may need different footwear depending on the activity you are doing. For example, some people may need
3. a more supportive shoe for running and don’t need a shoe with as much cushioning for daily life.
4. Prioritize quality over fashion. Beauty doesn’t have to mean pain, nor should it, when it comes to footwear. Look for shoes with durable materials that will give you the support your feet need.
5. Replace your shoes as they wear down. Common signs of wear and tear on shoes include run down soles, less traction, and loss of cushioning.

“Choosing the right footwear is important for keeping your feet happy and healthy,” says Dr. Martin, “People of all ages should make sure they are wearing shoes that promote foot health so that they can continue to do the activities they enjoy pain-free.”

If you have been experiencing foot pain, schedule an appointment with a Riverside podiatrist in the MyRiverside app or by calling (815) 802-7090.