Be Like Cinderella: A Shoe That Fits

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Most of us remember going shoe shopping as children. We'd have our feet measured while Mum or Dad insisted that our old school shoes "weren't that bad", and we'd spend ages trying to find a pair that looked cool enough for the playground.

Yet once we reach adulthood, many of us stick with the same shoe size for years without ever questioning it.

After all, if the shoes feel comfortable and don't cause blisters, they must fit properly... right?

Unfortunately, in clinic we often find that's not the case. We regularly see people wearing shoes that are simply too small for their feet. It's not just high heels or narrow shoes that can cause problems – footwear that's a little too short can also take its toll over time.

Thickened Toenails

One of the first things we notice when sandal season arrives is the condition of people's toenails.

If your toes are constantly knocking against the end of your shoes, the nails can gradually react by becoming thicker. Over time they may become discoloured, harder to cut and more difficult to manage.

Ingrown Toenails

Shoes that squeeze the toes can also make ingrown toenails worse.

Whilst footwear isn't always the cause, extra pressure on the nail can increase discomfort and aggravate an existing problem.

Corns and Callus

When it comes to footwear, it's not just the length that matters. The depth of the toe box – the part of the shoe that sits over the top of your toes – is important too.

If your second toe is longer than your big toe, it's quite common for it to sit slightly higher. When there isn't enough room inside the shoe, rubbing can occur over the joint. Given enough time, this can lead to corns or areas of hard skin developing.

Bunions

Bunions are often one of the first things people think about when they hear the word podiatry.

Whilst the link between footwear and bunion development is still debated, shoes that are too small can certainly make bunions more uncomfortable. Pressure and rubbing over the joint can lead to soreness and irritation.

Are Your Shoes the Right Fit?

Our feet can change over time, so don't assume that the shoe size you've always worn is still the right one for you.

If you're unsure whether your footwear fits properly, ask at your next appointment. We can check the fit of your shoes and measure your feet if needed.

After all, Cinderella had the right idea – finding a shoe that fits really does matter.