Footwear comes in all shapes and sizes, as do feet! Some of the most common complaints involving the feet such as plantar fasciitis, corns and callouses can be caused by poorly supportive footwear. Your Podiatrist will be able to assess your current footwear and discuss if they are suitable or if another style of shoe would help with your foot complaints. There are a range of things to look for in good shoes, and these are just a few of the examples.
- Firm midsole – to provide support under your arches
- Firm heel counter – to provide support around your heel and ankle
- Deep heel counter – to provide support for unstable feet & ankles
- Firm lateral heel midsole – to provide support and protect against lateral instability
Your Podiatrist will also have a list of suitable shoe stores in your area that can provide appropriate footwear no matter what your requirements. If you have 2 different sized feet or your feet are a more unusual shape and you have trouble finding shoes that fit properly, Podiatrists are able to refer you to an Orthotist or Pedorthist (shoe maker) for specially prescribed medical grade footwear. If you are referred as a Department of Veteran’s Affairs patient, you are eligible for this type of footwear if your condition warrants such treatment.
