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As you age, changes to your body and feet can make foot pain more likely. This can make daily activities more difficult and even increase your risk of falling.
Much of managing and preventing foot pain can come down to proper footwear. Here are some common problems and solutions to help you find a perfect shoe:
Problem: Changing foot sizes: Your feet may change in size and shape, usually getting wider and longer.
Solution: Ask to have your foot measured — including the width — at a shoe store, keeping in mind that one foot can be slightly larger than the other, so you should buy for the larger foot. Wear the socks you would normally wear with the shoes, as this will affect the fit. Try shoes on near the end of the day when your feet are their largest.
Problem: Bumps or protrusions on feet: These can be caused by hammertoes, corns, bunions and bone spurs. Shoes that don’t fit properly can further irritate these problems by rubbing or pressing against them. Ill-fitting shoes, hammertoes and bunions can also cause pain at the ball of the foot (metatarsalgia).
Solution: The front of the shoe (toe box), should be roomy, with a half inch between the end of your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Never buy shoes that are too tight. You can also have shoes professionally stretched in areas of irritation. For metatarsalgia, metatarsal pads or cushions may help ease impact on the affected joint, as can appropriate footwear.
Problem: Poor shoe quality and selection: Shoes can be expensive, and it’s tempting to select a low-cost shoe that doesn’t fit great or provides minimal support. Wearing old, worn-out shoes that have quit providing support or tread grip can also be a problem in terms of foot health and safety.
Solution: When buying a shoe, opt for a stiff heel that doesn’t give way when pressing on it, a toe box that is semi-flexible, and a shoe that does not twist in the middle when you try to twist it.
Join the discussion at the Aging well support group. Let others know about shoes you love and how to keep your feet happy!
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I was given only one shoe, 2 cushioned shoe inserts, and small cushioning pads during this 3 week rest of my foot to see if the tear will heal. I’m working with all of them right now to see which feels best. My question about shoes is for the future, since my situation is chronic, just in case there might be specific companies that people found were better than others. Thanks for your suggestions.
@mietzel, Your response is perfectly timed! We just got a text from son that tells us that he just needs to get a cushioned insert to match the height of the leg brace with a sole insert on the other foot! I am puzzled why the PT spinal cord doctor who ordered the insert did not mention that earlier in his recovery!
I am currently wearing a HOKA Recovery sandal that was recommended by my podiatrist last week. I have had pain in my heal since April, and attributed it to plantar fasciitis, I have been doing the stretches, the icing, and wearing a foot brace at night and it kept getting worse. So when he saw me he offerd me choice of injection or a short term topical application to reduce the inflammation. No meds due to my transplant medications.
I feel like I am walking on air. They have a high arch which he wants me to have. I found them locally and tried them on before purchasing. at a store that specializes in work boots and walking/running shoes. The owner told me that the nurses and teachers love the shoe version of my sandal. I don't know what you need for your foot, but I am going to try this brand for my next pair of walking shoes.
Have you asked your doctor about a brand or what to look for? Note: Go to a store where you can try them on and talk to someone who is knowledge about shoes. It is worth the extra money to be pain free.
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2 ReactionsGood afternoon. I too am now wearing HOKA walking shoe. Main reason....I need stability to keep my balance and prevent falls. HOKA does that well. The high arch fits perfectly....don't need to add any insoles. They are very light. I was able to extend my morning walk because of these shoes. It is very exciting to find something that has everything. And the big bonus......stretchy lackes. I can't risk falling because my shoes come untied. These are called "10 Seconds" Elastic Laces. Worth every penny if they prevent a stumble.
May you have joy and contentment.
Chris
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2 ReactionsMy podiatrist recommends the Hoka brand too
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1 Reaction@peterson, I read on your profile that you are a hiker. I like to hike, and am struggling with a heal problem and have a 2 week follow-up with podiatrist this week. The Hoka sandals have brought me some relief for daily activities, but the pain is still not remedied for walking. I am hesitant to replace my walking shoes until after my appointment. In preparation for my appointment, I have a few questions that I would like to ask you: Do you wear the Hoka shoes for walking? or for everyday activities?
I wear a hoka shoe for walking in and a hoka hiking boot. I am new to this product. I have noticed the biggest difference in my hiking shoes they are awesome
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1 ReactionDoes anyone know where I can buy quality shoes for a size 4 woman's shoe? I've had a hard time all my life finding professional shoes and casual (being forced to purchase 'kids' when Marmie and Naturalizer didn't have my style). Sometimes I've gone with a size 5, but they are like boats on my feet. Open to suggestions, please!
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1 ReactionHello, @bessie4r. I googled “small size shoes for women” and lots of different companies popped up. Many mentioned size 4. Try googling like I did and see what you can find.
Has needing small shoes always been a problem for you?
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2 ReactionsBecky - I've been googling for decades - all websites post Size 4, but you find nothing. I can get tons of 4-inch hooker heels, or Jimmy Choo's for $1k, but neither is suitable at my age. Even when you delineate specifics, you get the same websites, spending hours, only to find unavailable in size 4. It's frustrating b/c I know I'm not the only lady with small feet. Thanks so much for your kind response! I'll keep on searching...