National Measure Your Feet Day: Why It Matters

Sunday, January 23rd is National Measure Your Feet Day, and while it might seem odd to observe a day about measuring your feet, it’s vital to your foot health. So today, Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, is sharing reasons why.

Have you measured your feet recently?

Many adults don’t get their feet measured. But as we age, our feet can change in size. And while they may not grow longer, they can get wider and flatter. At that point, your shoes may no longer fit as well as they used to. They will also change in size if you lose or gain weight.

Why should you have your feet measured regularly?

If you don’t measure your feet regularly, your current footwear may not fit, and you could be at risk of developing a whole host of issues, including:

• Foot pain
• Bruising
• Ingrown toenails
• Blisters
• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoes

Shoes that don’t fit properly can also cause you to walk differently, which causes extra pressure on your ankles and knees, resulting in issues with your joints later in life.

What if I’m wearing the wrong size shoes?

The best thing is to get a pair of shoes that are the correct size, especially if you’re on your feet a lot during the day or enjoy running or walking. You will need to try on the shoes before purchasing them. Keep in mind that your feet are typically larger toward the end of the day, and after exercise, so that’s the best time for fitting.

When trying on your shoes, make sure that the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest part of the shoe. If they feel too tight, don’t assume they will stretch enough and eventually fit properly. Your heel should also fit securely without riding up and down or slipping.

Don’t just look after your feet on National Measure Your Feet Day - do it year-round. If you have any concerns, problems, or just want a checkup, contact Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, to help identify the issue. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling us at 
425-455-0936.