Self Care

Everyday shoes

• You might need to wear special orthopedic shoes or have minor shoe modifications with wedges or pads. Shoes should be comfortable and not squeeze any part of your foot.
• Shoes should fit well enough that they should not have to be broken in.
• Avoid shoes with pointy toes, thin soles and high heels. These can form calluses, corns and neuroma.
• Make sure the shoes fit well with socks.
• The toe box should be wide and not cramp your toes.
• The sole should be shock-absorbent. A low wedge is best.
• Make sure the material is breathable such as with canvas or leather. Don't wear shoes made of plastic.
• They should feel good as soon as you put them on.

Athletic shoes

A good pair of athletic shoes for your exercise can head off many foot problems. Here are suggestions from the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society.

• The toe box should be wide, and heel and sole should be cushioned.
• Make sure your toes don't press against the shoe. Try to wiggle your toes and also run in place at the shoe store. Your toes should remain comfortable.
• Running shoes should have spring in the forefoot. The front should tilt up off the ground when the shoe rests flat on the ground.
• The shoe should be flexible but not limp.

More on Foot Problems

In the Encyclopedia:

This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.