Would it surprise you to learn that the biggest culprit for hurting feet is -ill-fitting shoes! Unsupportive and too tight shoes can really do a number on your feet.
Here are three common problems that frequently cause foot pain and disasters – especially if you’re over 50!
Problem #1: Got Plantar Fasciitis?
Here’s What You Might Feel Or Notice:
-Stabbing pains when you put weight on your heel
-Pain feels worst first thing in the morning or following a long rest.
Plantar fasciitis occurs from inflammation at the point where the plantar fascia ligament meets the heel bone. Several things can cause it to flare up: obesity, flat or highly arched feet, a tendency to roll your feet inward while walking, or just plain overuse.
Shoes To Blame When Your Feet Hurt:
-Clogs or open-backed sandals, shoes with no support or worn down heels
What To Do
Buy a pair of new shoes with good shock absorption. Dr. Wehrli recommends that you replace shoes that you wear regularly around every six months.
Other Recommendations
Maintain a healthy weight, and put ice on your heels for 15 minutes three or four times daily. If you compete athletically, seek a sport that has less impact. The Podiatry Center can provide you with orthotics, splints, and other treatments up to and including surgery.
Problem #2: Got Hammertoes?
Here’s What You Might Feel Or Notice:
-Your toe bends abnormally, due to muscle imbalance or arthritic changes
-Your toe feels stabbing pain when you move it
-Corns and calluses from the constant friction of your shoes rubbing against your toes.
Shoes To Blame When Your Feet Hurt:
-High heels, too-short shoes that pinch the toes
What To Do
Make sure the shoes you wear have ½ inch of space between the inside of your shoe and the longest toe. Don’t wear heels higher than one inch – spiky or chunky makes no difference.
Other Recommendations
Ask our experts at CVFA to recommend stretching exercises to strengthen the toes. You may even need surgery from one of our experienced podiatrists to release the toe. We can also remove corns, too – never try to cut these out yourself!
Problem #3: Got Bunions?
Here’s What You Might Feel Or Notice:
-Bumps or bulges on the outside of your big or pinky toe joint
-Red and swollen toe joints
-Pain at the site of the bump
-Difficulty moving your big or pinky toe
-Calluses and corns form when toes overlap
Shoes To Blame When Your Feet Hurt:
-High heeled, narrow or too-tight shoes
What To Do
Buy shoes with a wide toe box, and make sure your heels are no higher than one inch.
Other Recommendations
Relieve pressure on the bunion with orthotic inserts or cushion the bump with a bunion pad when your shoes rub. You may require surgery to completely remove the bunion. Our doctors have performed hundreds of surgeries for bunions, using innovative methods that reduce the likelihood that your bunions will return. We promise compassionate care in a professional environment.
