Foot Health and the Wrong Shoe Size

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According to studies, only about 30% of people are wearing shoes of the right width and length and wearing the wrong shoe size can cause many foot issues. So today Dr. Stuart Snyder and Dr. Sara Sharma of Maple Springs Foot Center, LLC are sharing information regarding some of those problems.  

Foot Health and the Wrong Size Shoes

Several studies have revealed how improperly-fitting shoes negatively impact your health and why well-fitting shoes are so crucial. 

  • ·Neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy is a painful and typically permanent condition with symptoms of pins and needles in the feet. This is typically from the pressure on the nerves from wearing shoes that are too tight.

  • Ingrown Toenails: If your shoes are too short or narrow, the extra pressure on your toe can cause the edge of a toenail to grow into the skin. Ingrown toenails can cause the skin around your nail to become infected or red.

  • Diminished Quality of Life: Studies show that women, in particular, noted that foot symptoms negatively affected their quality of life. This is probably because women's shoes are often not designed to be as comfortable or functional as men's shoes.

  • Shoe Size Changes: Many think that once they reach age 18, or when they stop growing, their feet no longer change in size. But your feet change in many ways throughout a lifetime.  

Indications That Your Shoes Are the Wrong Size

Discomfort and pain are some noticeable signs that your shoes are the wrong size, but sometimes it’s not that obvious. If you notice any of these issues, it may be time to have your feet properly measured: 

  • Bruising on your toenails;

  • Toenail damage or loss;

  • Blisters;

  • Callouses;

  • Skin irritation around your toenails. 

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should have your feet measured. Some experts recommend once or twice a year, or at least any time you purchase new shoes.

It is also worth noting that not every brand of shoes has the same fit, regardless of size, so pay more attention to the fit and feel instead of the size number.  

There are many possible things that can cause foot pain.  So if your feet are hurting now, it's important that you contact the offices of Dr. Stuart Snyder and Dr. Sara Sharma of Maple Springs Foot Center, LLC to schedule an appointment. Call us today us at (301) 762-3338 or book your appointment online.

footwear, Foot HealthMaple Springs Foot Centeringrown toenails, blisters, calluses