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10 Points of Proper Shoe Fit

Bunions, corns, calluses, neuromas, hammertoes and other foot problems can be caused by poor fitting shoes. These problems may often be prevented, reduced or eliminated by proper selection of your new shoes.

The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society, the National Shoe Retailers Association , and the Pedorthic Footwear Association have jointly developed the following suggestions for selection new shoes.

1. Sizes vary among shoe brands and styles. Don't select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe. Judge the shoe by how it fits on your foot.
2. Select a shoe that conforms as nearly as possible to the shape of your foot.
3. Have your feet measured regularly. The size of your feet changes as you grow older.
4. Have BOTH feet measured. Most people have one foot larger than the other. Fit to the largest foot.
5. Fit at the end of the day when your feet are largest.
6. Stand during the fitting process and check that there is adequate space (3/8" to 1/2") for your longest toe at the end of each shoe.
7. Make sure the ball of your foot fits comfortably into the widest part (ball pocket) of the shoe.
8. Don't purchase shoes that feel too tight, expecting them to "stretch" to fit.
9. Your heel should fit comfortably in the shoe with a minimum amount of slippage.
10. Walk in the shoe to make sure it fits and feels right. (Fashionable shoes CAN be comfortable!) Ask your local independent shoe retailer is his staff has been trained by the "Shoe Fit Program."

Find an independent shoe retailer near you.

This material does not constitute medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. Foot Menders will not answer medical questions via email. Please consult a physician for specific treatment recommendations.