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For many years, footwear has been designed to meet our real and perceived needs - protection, support, comfort, sturdiness and stylishness. Our feet endure tremendous amounts of pressure throughout our day-to-day activities, and it's important that we take care of them by wearing the best fitting shoes. On average, walking brings a force equal to several hundred tons on your feet and are subject to more injury than any other part of your body placing more importance on the need to protect them with proper footwear. Prevent Heel Pain If you suffer from heel pain you are not alone. Heel pain is frequently diagnosed and treated by podiatrists. The best defense to keep pain under control is early treatment and prevention. Heel pain can have many different causes with the most common being plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the band of tissue (plantar fascia) that extends from the heel to the toes. You can take steps now to avoid heel pain, including: * Wear shoes that fit well
* Wear proper shoes for each activity
* Do not wear shoes with excessive wear on heels or soles
* Prepare properly before exercising by stretching and warming up
* Pace yourself when you participate in athletic activities
* Don't underestimate your body's need for rest and good nutrition
* Lose excess weight Taking proper preventative measures can save your feet in the long run. If pain and other symptoms of inflammation persist, you should limit your normal daily activities and contact your Brooklyn podiatrist immediately. Pain is your body's way of telling you that there is something wrong, so don't ignore your heel pain. How to Choose the Best Shoes for Your Feet When purchasing a pair of shoes it is important to make sure they fit properly to avoid injury. The following tips can help you avoid purchasing shoes that may contribute to problems in your feet: * Try on shoes late in the day, when your feet tend to be a bit larger due to natural swelling.
* Women should opt for low, stable heels
* Try on both shoes to ensure that they fit comfortably on both feet
* Choose breathable shoe materials, such as leather to prevent excessive sweating and blisters
* Have your feet measured to ensure the best fit
* Avoid pointy-toed shoes which cause bunions and hammertoes
* Walk around the store with both shoes on to make sure the fit is comfortable
* Choose the right shoe for your foot type Men's and Women's Shoes The best shoes for men are good quality oxford styles, shoes ordinarily associated with wing-tip or cap toe designs. Also suitable are slip-ons, dressy loafers, and low dress boots. Men, as well as women, should buy shoes for work, leisure, and special activities, matching the shoe to the activity. Women often inflict more punishment on their feet with improper footwear that can bring about unnecessary foot ailments. Majority of the problems created are a result of high heels. To relieve the abusive effects of high heels, women can limit the time that they wear them, alternating with good quality sneakers or flats for part of the day. Protect your feet and maintain proper footwear for every occasion. Contact your podiatrist in Brooklyn today for further consultation on any foot ailments you may have and to further prevent the development of others. Happy, healthy feet deserve proper footwear to keep you going.
Dr. Perlstein is a Brooklyn podiatrist, treating more than 25,000 patients since 1986. This experienced podiatrist offers a wide range of foot and ankle care including emergency care, laser toenail fungus and treatment for bunions in Brooklyn. His office is also open on Sundays.
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