Finding shoes is not only about picking the right size and style. The shape of the toe box also matters because it determines how much space your toes have at the front of the shoe. A proper toe box should allow your toes to lie naturally and move without pressure. A poor fit can cause rubbing and pinching. These problems may lead to blisters, ingrown toenails, or crooked toes.

A few checks can help you choose a better fit. Stand when trying on shoes because your feet can lengthen and widen with weight on them. Make sure there is enough room for your longest toe without pressing against the front. The toe box should also have enough width and height for your forefoot and toes. Foot shape, bunions, and hammertoes can increase your need for extra space. Shoes that feel tight across the toes are not a good choice, even if the length seems correct.

The wrong toe box can create problems slowly. Constant rubbing can produce a blister, while pressure against the toe may contribute to an ingrown toenail. Crowded toes can also encourage painful changes in toe position. If symptoms develop, a podiatrist can inspect the skin and nails, evaluate toe alignment, and look for pressure-related problems. Treatment may include blister care, ingrown toenail treatment, or recommendations for better-fitting footwear. In more advanced cases, the podiatrist can discuss treatment based on the cause.

Think of shoe shopping as an opportunity to protect your feet, not just cover them. Choose shoes that give your toes enough room without allowing your heel to slide. Replace footwear when it becomes worn or loses its support. If tight shoes are causing foot pain or changes in your toes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief tips, and additional guidance on proper shoe fit.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.