When it comes to choosing footwear, it’s important to prioritize both comfort and need. While style is important, it shouldn’t be the sole focus when selecting shoes. Opting for ill-fitting shoes can lead to issues with your feet, ankles, and even posture. So, be sure to take the time to find shoes that look great and provide the support and comfort your feet deserve. Your body will thank you for it in the long run!

Here are some shoe choices you should steer clear from to avoid any potential problems:

Avoid Stilettos

One item you should avoid is stilettos. While they may look attractive, they’re not the best choice for your feet. Because your weight rests on two tiny areas, they can be unstable and increase your risk of spraining an ankle or tripping. It’s better to opt for clunky heels because they offer more support and evenly distribute your weight.

Avoid wearing flimsy shoes

Give your foot’s plantar fascia the care it deserves. This strip of tissue runs down the bottom of the foot. It pulls on the heel to help with walking and works best with shoes with good arch support. Shoes without good arch support can inflame, tear, or overburden the plantar fascia, leading to severe heel pain. Flip-flops and ballet shoes are generally not a great choice for prolonged wear. Their thin, flimsy platforms lack shock absorption and rarely provide arch support or heel cushioning.

Avoid High-Heels

Wear no more than 2 inches of high heels. Your metatarsal bones will thank you. The lower the heel, the more closely your feet are positioned to their natural positions.

Avoid platform shoes and wedges

These shoes have hard footbeds that can interfere with your normal stride, especially if the heel is much higher than the toe. Wear wedges and platforms with soles that are practically equal to the ground if you must wear them.

If you have questions or concerns about your feet, we’re here to help. At Clark Podiatry Center, Dr. Brandon A. Macy, a board-certified podiatrist, treats various conditions such as heel pain, diabetic wounds, bunions, nerve pain, and more. The New Jersey Children’s Foot Health Institute is also part of Clark Podiatry Center. We provide exceptional service for patients in Union County. Contact our office at (732) 382-3470 or schedule an appointment online. Our office is at 1114 Raritan Road, Clark, NJ 07066.