This Simple Step Can Lead to Healthy, Happy Feet

Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast who’s joined the latest run club trend or someone who racks up steps during your daily commute, your feet endure constant wear and tear. This daily strain can lead to discomfort or even long-term issues. Dr. Charles Rainier F. Arandia, from the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Makati Medical Center, emphasizes that good foot health is essential to overall well-being. He notes, “Our feet provide balance and stability for our entire body. They aren’t only meant to help us run and walk, but they also prevent falls, injuries, and support proper posture.”

One of the most common mistakes people make, which leads to a host of foot problems, is wearing ill-fitting shoes. "Many people don’t realize they’re wearing shoes that are too small, especially those in professions requiring dress shoes or those standing in heels all day,” says Dr. Arandia. “Wearing narrow shoes can cause bunions and corns, while overly large shoes or those lacking arch support can lead to plantar fasciitis or blisters. This pain and discomfort can disrupt your daily movements.” 

Foot problems, if left untreated, can lead to more serious issues beyond just discomfort. Dr. Arandia warns, “Wearing shoes that don’t fit properly can put additional strain on your knees, hips, and lower back. Misaligned joints, ligaments, and muscles caused by improper footwear can affect your gait, throwing off your balance and even leading to chronic back pain.”

To mitigate these issues, MakatiMed advocates finding the right shoe fit as a fundamental step toward better foot health. Dr. Arandia highlights a common mistake: many people stick to their shoe size for years, unaware that foot size can change over time. He suggests, “When buying new shoes, measure your foot length from the tip of the big toe to the outer part of the heel, ideally at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest. Leave about a finger’s width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.” This ensures there’s enough space for comfort.

Dr. Arandia also advises checking the width of your foot to avoid tightness in the ball of the foot, which can cause discomfort. Your toes should spread out naturally in the shoe to enhance stability. He emphasizes the importance of knowing your foot’s arch type. Many shoe brands offer specific designs tailored to different foot anatomies. "People with high arches should look for shoes with cushioned midsoles to absorb shock, while those with flat feet should opt for pairs with rigid or stable midsoles for extra support,” he explains. “Comfort is key, so always try on shoes while standing and walking to ensure they don’t cause chafing or slipping.”

In addition to fit, considering the activities you plan to do in your new shoes is critical. For example, if you know you’ll be walking a lot during your commute, select shoes that offer both support and protection. Dr. Arandia stresses the need for shoes that can handle specific demands, whether it’s for long work shifts, daily step-count goals, or casual jogging with friends.

Ultimately, finding properly fitted shoes is more than just a fashion choice. It’s an investment in your overall health. Wearing the right shoes can prevent foot issues like bunions and corns and, more importantly, help reduce strain on other parts of your body, such as the knees, hips, and back. As Dr. Arandia concludes, “A small but impactful healthy step towards happy feet can also ease back pain and improve your quality of life.”

By taking the time to ensure a perfect shoe fit, you not only prioritize your foot health but also safeguard your overall well-being.