Ask yourself this and be honest: Have you ever bought shoes that didn’t fit your feet properly, but were stylish or came with a price tag you couldn’t ignore?

If you answered yes, you’re not alone. In fact, you’re among the 64 per cent of Australian women who have done so according to a recent study by my FootDr, the nation’s largest podiatry group.

Of the women surveyed, more than a third (35%) revealed they had experienced heel or arch pain in the last 12 months! Corns and calluses (18%) and bunions and hammertoes (6%) were also conditions experienced. Does this sound like you?

Women have a lot to think about when it comes to foot health and wearing footwear that’s best for their feet.

Wearing ill-fitting shoes may look right, but it’s so wrong for your feet.

Here’s why:

• Women have smaller feet than men and their feet are also shaped differently
• Typically, women often have a wider forefoot, shorter metatarsals and a narrower heel
• Their joint range of motion is greater and this can lead to sprains and overuse injuries
• Studies show females also have less cartilage than men and are therefore predisposed to arthritis
• There are a raft of other reasons why you need to make healthy footwear choices including pregnancy, impact of health issues or your chosen profession and exercise routine.

What are the common foot conditions women experience?

• Narrow and tight shoes around the big toe or forefoot can cause bunions, hammertoes and neuromas (pinched nerves).
• High heels put increased pressure on the ball of the foot and tilt the spine forward, leading to knee, hip or even lower back pain.
• High heels also shorten the calf, hamstrings and back muscles, leading to strain and pinched nerves in the spine.
• Ongoing use of ill-fitting shoes can also lead to gradual development of Plantar Fasciitis, or heel pain

Fortunately, making a few adjustments to your footwear can save your feet from a world of pain.

• Switching from flats or basic heels to footwear with more support
• Try supportive shoes from modern brands such as Ziera, Merrell or Vionic
• If you, like many women, still choose to wear your favourite shoes, orthotics may be the answer. Prescription made foot orthotics can be designed to fit your favourite shoes.
• Finally, our podiatrists can help you find the solution or combat existing foot pain.

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Need some advice on shoes? Call Podiatry Care today or make an appointment online using the ‘BOOK NOW’ button at the top of the page.