Poor footwear choice can cause more than foot pain, especially in summer

Wearing the wrong footwear can lead to back, ankle and other problems. Athletes are not the only ones who need to be selective with their footwear.

“Shoes that are too tight, too loose or without enough support, can lead to unwanted stress on the feet, ankles, lower leg, hip and spine,” according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. “This ongoing pressure can cause pain and injuries that may limit or prevent participation in work, sports and hobbies.”

• Heel: Needs a “broad base” and be no longer than one-and-a-half inches
• Sole: Should be cushioned and have “enough grip to prevent slipping”
• Linings: Made of smooth, seam-free “breathable materials” to keep “the foot fresh”
• Toe box: Enough room for “toes to wiggle” “Make sure there’s half an inch of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe,” the Society further recommends. “There should be enough width in the shoe to accommodate your whole foot – there should be no pressure on the joints on the sides of your foot.”

Also, shopping for shoes in the afternoon is advisable, as feet tend to swell a bit during the day.

Summer time is a popular time for people to wear a type of footwear that doesn’t always provide the best support – flip flops and sandals. “Shop for a flip-flop made with thick cushioned soles and neoprene rubber upper area. Neoprene rubber is wet suit like material and minimizes the potential for blisters and other types of irritation,” said Dr. Edward Szabo, a Georgia Regents Health System podiatrist, via a press release. “Make sure the flip-flop has some raised arch support. This will help distribute pressure more evenly.”