One third of men and woman wear ill-fitting shoes. Often times, style comes before comfort with shoes. This may seem like an acceptable option at the surface, however it can lead to discomfort as well as heightened health risk. Incorrect shoe choice can affect the spine and the body’s circulation as well.

Blisters, Calluses, and Bruises

Shoes are meant to be comfortable. If you find that your feet are developing blisters, calluses, or bruises after being worn, the shoes may be too tight for your feet. You may need to consider a wider version of the show or a larger size. There are also shoe-stretching options available for those looking to keep the same pair.

Aching Arches

When shoes are supportive, your arches will not ache. If the shoes are to big or lack support, arches can end up bothering you severely. In order for shoes to feel comfortable, and to avoid suffering from aching pains in your arches, there needs to be proper arch support. Flimsy shoes, such as flip-flops or sandals with thin bottoms, can end up causing injury over time. For instance, walking in flip-flops too often can end up leading to serious spine stress.

Tightness

Tightness either with width or length can indicate that shoes do not fit. When shoes are too tight, there often accompanies foot pain. Many times, a pair of shoes is purchased and fits comfortably at first, but after a long day of wear ends up causing pain and discomfort. Feet often swell from use during the day, and can end up not fitting properly in shoes when there is not enough space for this. If you buy shoes and try them out at the end up the day, when your feet are swollen, you are more likely to purchase shoes that fit your feet at all stages throughout the day. As well, most people have one foot that is slightly larger than the other. Trying on both shoes and waking around the store is an important way to know that the accurate size is being purchased.

Changes to Walking

If you notice that your walking has changed, your shoes may be to blame. If your method of walking barefoot differs from your walking in a particular pair of shoes, the shoes may be placing stress on your spine. High heels are common shoes for this type of problem. The way you walk should not change because of the shoes you are wearing. They are meant to fit you – not the other way around.

Toes Cramped and Crunched

Your toes should fit comfortably in your shoes. If you are noticing that your toes are a bit cramped in your shoes, they are too small or too narrow for your feet. Your shoes should leave space for your toes, and toes should never be pressed up against the front of the shoe. Your toes need a little space in order for you to function and walk properly without causing stress on other parts of the body.