Biglerville Foot & Ankle Center
717-677-9288

West Shore Foot & Ankle Center
717-458-5611

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717-652-5811

Paxtonia Foot & Ankle Center
717-541-0988

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Q. Why Do Shoes Matter? 

A:       During our entire lives we wear shoes. From infancy until we take our final steps, we are preoccupied with the decision of which shoes are best for our feet. Shoes are in fact the most important part of your wardrobe, since the entire weight of your body is supported by them. Our daily comfort depends on the shoes we choose; but very few people have the knowledge, or take the time to select properly fitted shoes. 

Q:       How do I know what is the right size? 

A:       Our shoe sizing system dates to the middle ages. Shoemakers adopted a system using barley corns placed end to end. One full size is equal to one barley corn or 1/3 of an inch. In the real world, when shopping for shoes, you need to realize that shoe sizes vary from brand to brand and within brands.

1. Shop for shoes in a store with knowledgeable sales people and a large selection of shoes.
2. Take the time to have both feet measured while standing. Use this number as a reference point when shopping. Remember your shoe size will change with time. 
3. Evaluate the shoe size by: first determining which is your longest toe. You should be able to fit your thumb between the tip of your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Then be sure that the widest part of your foot lines up with the widest part of the shoe.
4. When trying on shoes, bring the socks you plan to wear with these shoes. Also, you need to bring any inserts or orthotics.
5. Shoes should feel comfortable in the store. Do not anticipate a break in period to improve the feel.
6. Always try on both shoes. If your feet are different sizes, pick a pair that fits the larger foot.
7. Try on different styles and different sizes, remembering that manufacturers vary in the shapes and sizes of their shoes. There is no "best brand of shoe."
8. Consider trying one brand or style on one foot and another on the opposite foot and walk around the store to determine which feels better.
9. An ideal shoe has laces for better fit. If tying is difficult, try Velcro fasteners. Be aware that being able to snug a shoe against the mid-foot is better than a shoe in which the fit relies on the snugness of the shoe against the toes.
10. Shop for shoes later in the day. Feet tend to swell as the day progresses  

Q:       But I thought sneakers ruined your feet so that you couldn't wear other shoes. 

A:       A common misconception is that "sneakers ruin your feet." This may have been truer forty years ago but is not the case today. The athletic shoe industry has evolved to provide sport-specific protection and comfort for the athlete or the non-athlete that is in many ways far superior to standard casual shoes or dress shoes. In what ever sport you participate, be it walking, aerobics, tennis, or running, pick a shoe that is appropriate for your sport from a store with a good selection and knowledgeable sales people.  

Q:       What if I Have Foot Problems ? 

A:       Some foot problems cause foot deformities. This can make it hard to find a good fitting shoe. Look for shoes with soft leather or fabric to be able to stretch over the deformity. You may need a wide width shoe if you have bunions. Hammer toes will require a shoe with a deep toe box. If you have arch problems, you may need inserts or orthotics. Some deformities are so severe that they can only be accommodated in custom fitted footwear. 

Q:       What about children's Shoes? 

A:       Shoe fit is sometimes difficult in children. Your child may be unable to verbalize whether or not their shoes are too tight. Carefully examine your child's feet daily for areas of redness or irritation. Have your child's feet measured and shoes fit by a qualified shoe fitter. If in doubt about your child's shoe fit or what type of shoe is best, have their feet evaluated by your podiatrist.  

Q:       What about Socks? 

A:       You should always wear socks with shoes. They absorb moisture and protect the skin from friction and blistering. They also protect the shoe from the damaging effects of the sweat and oils from the feet. There remains controversy as to what material is best for socks.

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