Are the Wrong Shoes Causing Your Heel Pain?

The correct pair of shoes can be the best friend your feet ever had. They cushion your steps, support your arches, and help you to live life to the fullest. But the wrong pair of shoes can also be your worst enemy. Today Dr. Hubert Lee of CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists, in Bellevue, WA, is explaining why you need properly-fitting shoes.

You probably spend most of your day walking on surfaces that are flat and hard, without any flexibility and can be demanding on your feet. Arch support and proper cushioning in your footwear are crucial if you want to get through your busy days without having to deal with aching feet.

Why Our Shoes Fail Us

There are many reasons why a particular shoe might be causing your heel pain. Here are some of the most common.

Your shoes don’t fit properly. You’d be surprised how often people wear shoes that aren’t the right shape and size for their feet. If they are too big, too small, too wide, or too narrow, they can be problematic. The wrong fit can rub, fail to support you, pinch, or even change your gait. Unfortunately, people with especially wide or narrow feet may find it especially challenging to find shoes off the rack that fit properly.

You’re wearing shoes that aren’t meant for that purpose.  Ballet flats, flip-flops, and high heels all have their uses, but they should all be worn sparingly to avoid heel pain! Sandals and shoes with poor arch support, insufficient cushioning, and poor ergonomics should never be worn daily.

You’re wearing the wrong kind of shoes. Of course, you wouldn’t try to run a marathon in a pair of steel-toed boots! And while this is an extreme example, the truth is people wear the wrong types of shoes all the time for all kinds of activities.

Your shoes are worn out. It can be difficult to let go of your comfy old shoes, but shoes actually do have a lifespan. Over time, the treads wear down, and they no longer grip properly. The midsoles can flatten and lose their spring, resulting in less shock absorption to protect your feet. If you begin noticing more foot pain when you wear a particular pair of shoes you’ve had for a while, they should probably be replaced.

Foot pain is not normal, and our specialists can help you resolve and prevent it quickly and effectively. If you’re having foot or ankle pain of any type, contact the office of Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists, in Bellevue, WA, today at (425) 455-0936 to schedule an appointment for proper treatment.