Choosing The Right Shoe For You
Choosing The Right Shoe For You.
A Well Known Fact
There is no better feeling than when you are wearing a
comfortable shoe. Comfortable shoes allow us to enjoy the day's
activities pain free. Wearing shoes that fit properly can also
prevent potential health problems from occurring.
When To Buy
Most shoes can last an average of three to twelve months. As you
begin to wear out a shoe, you begin to notice a difference in
comfort. Worn out shoes can cause back pain, sore knee joints,
or aching feet. The time to replace your shoes is when the
cushion has broken down or the motion control has been lost.
Which Shoes To Buy?
Everyone's foot is different. The best shoe for you is the one
that gives you the proper fit, support, cushioning, and
flexibility. Choose a well-cushioned stability shoe that
compensates for any irregularities in your foot or your stride.
Some Common Foot Irregularities:
High Arched Feet
A high arched foot does not roll inward very much at all. There
is a highly curved arch along the inside of the foot. Also, the
toes appear to be in a clawed position. Highly arched feet are
very rigid and are unable to absorb shock when making contact
with the ground. The reason for this is that the foot is not
able to roll inward when the foot makes contact with the ground.
This lack of pronation can cause heel, knee, shin, and back
problems. Inserting special pads in the shoes, which compensate
for this condition, treats highly arched feet. The pads allow
the feet to absorb shock more easily. People with high arched
feet, should try to stay away from stability or motion control
shoes, which reduce foot mobility.
Flat Feet
The term "Flat Feet" refers to people who have a low arch, or no
arch at all. Sometimes they are said to have "fallen arches".
Most people's feet have a space on the inner side when the
bottom of the foot comes in contact with the ground. This is
called the arch. The height of the arch varies in size from one
person to another. Flat Feet are generally a hereditary
condition. The best shoe for this condition would be a motion
control or stability shoe with a firm midsole.
Over or Under Pronation.
Over pronation is the excessive inward rolling motion of the
foot. This inward motion is considered unhealthy because it can
cause a great deal of strain on the back, ankles, knees, and
lower legs. Over pronation can cause shin splints, plantar
fasciitis, and IT band syndrome. Under pronation occurs when the
outside of the foot takes the brunt of the shock when coming in
contact with the ground. This condition can cause problems with
the ligaments in your feet and ankles. Stability shoes feature
either a dual density midsole or a roll bar to help combat
pronation problems.
Some Helpful Shoe Buying Tips: