Anyone who has gone shoe shopping is familiar with how difficult finding the right size can be. While at one store you’re a size 7, at another you may be a size 8. Online shoe shopping takes away the ability to try on shoes and makes purchasing a fitting pair even more difficult. The lack of standardization between shoe sizes is an industry-wide issue, however; brands develop their own personal fit for each size of shoe, making the odds of that fit being shared with another brand very slim. Sizing differences often begin at the factory production level and continue even into the design stage, as each brand relies on certain designs to ensure success. Christina Cheng, senior director of investor relations at DSW, said, “There are very small, idiosyncratic differences that differ not just brand to brand, but shoe to shoe.”
Finding a properly fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information contact Dr. Marc R. Frankel of The Frankel Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in properly fitting shoes:
- Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
- Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
- Even though they may look fashionable, improperly fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
- Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, keeping properly fit shoes is vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Milford, PA, Middletown, NY, and
Need Advice on Proper Fitting Shoes?
Dr. Frankel founded Frankel Foot & Ankle to provide patients in Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey tri-state area with the latest advances in diagnostic technology and treatment for sports medicine conditions, foot and ankle trauma response, and innovative surgical and regenerative approaches. Contact Frankel Foot & Ankle today. With offices in Middletown, NY, Warwick, NY, and Milford, PA we are the go-to podiatrist near you!
