While advanced robots equipped with gyroscopes and accelerometers can perform many tasks better than humans, maintaining balance on uneven surfaces is still a marvel of our feet. Our feet can navigate various terrains, even with our eyes closed, thanks to their complex sensory feedback and mechanical structure. Just as a Nokia phone remains functional after a drop while an iPhone might break, our sophisticated feet are vulnerable to damage if not properly cared for. Therefore, it’s essential to pay attention to foot health.
Beyond regular exercise and maintaining an ideal body weight, wearing appropriate footwear is crucial for preserving foot structure and function. Proper footwear should provide protection, good grip, stability and shock absorption, and not aggravate any existing foot conditions. If you doubt the importance of proper footwear, consult someone suffering from heel pain – they will attest to its significance. Prevention is always better than cure. Choosing the right footwear can prevent damage and subsequent foot pain. Improper footwear is a leading cause of various foot and ankle conditions, including plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, flatfoot, bunions, and hammer toes, and it can even contribute to arthritis in the knees. Before purchasing new shoes, walk in them for at least 10 minutes. You might even try wearing different shoes on each foot to notice the difference.
For those already experiencing specific foot conditions, custom-made footwear may be necessary. Many outlets now offer foot scanning services to design footwear that provides optimal size and pressure distribution. Custom shoes can alleviate pressure on specific points, aiding in healing and pain relief. Here are some common conditions and the appropriate footwear modifications for each:
Plantar Fasciitis:
Commonly seen in diabetics but increasingly in otherwise healthy individuals, this condition often results from poor footwear. Over-the-counter MCR or MCP slippers can provide relief, especially for indoor use. In severe or recurring cases, custom-made footwear with these features is recommended:
Arch Support:
Shoes with good arch support can reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
Cushioned Insoles:
These help absorb shock and reduce heel pain.
Heel Elevation:
A slight heel lift can decrease tension on the plantar fascia.
Flatfoot:
This condition can be caused by genetic factors and is often observed in children up to the age of 10. If it persists or causes pain after this age, it requires medical evaluation and possible treatment, including exercises and footwear modifications. In adults with flat feet, proper footwear can prevent pain and mechanical damage to the knees. Recommended footwear for flatfoot includes:
Custom Orthotics:
Personalized insoles for better arch support and alignment.
Supportive Shoes:
Shoes with built-in arch support to redistribute pressure and enhance stability.
Firm Midsole:
Provides better support and prevents excessive foot pronation.
Metatarsalgia:
Characterized by pain in the ball of the foot, often due to excessive pressure on the metatarsal bones, this condition can be exacerbated by high heels, inadequate cushioning, or foot deformities. Effective footwear modifications include:
Metatarsal Pads:
Insoles with built-in pads to distribute pressure more evenly.
Cushioned Insoles:
Extra cushioning under the ball of the foot to alleviate pain and absorb impact.
Low-Heeled Shoes:
Reducing heel height to lessen pressure on the forefoot and improve comfort.
In summary, wearing proper footwear is crucial for preventing damage to our feet and managing existing conditions. Custom-made shoes are available in various stores, and consulting an orthopedic specialist can help diagnose underlying issues; he can also recommend appropriate physical therapy and lifestyle changes for optimal recovery.
Dr. P. Keerthivasan
Consultant Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon
Kauvery Hospital, Chennai
