Do You Have Difficulty Shopping for Shoes? Here’s How to Get the Perfect Fit

Shoe shopping can be a daunting task, especially if you struggle to find the right fit. According to a study conducted by the College of Podiatry, out of 2,000 adults surveyed, one-third of men and nearly half of women admitted to purchasing shoes that didn't exactly fit. While it might not seem like a huge deal if a pair of heels feels a smidge too tight, improperly fitting shoes can actually have several negative health effects. Hammertoe deformities, bunion growth, and consistent foot pain are common consequences, but poorly fitting shoes can also contribute to issues like headaches, knee, hip, and back pain.

The Importance of Properly Fitting Shoes

As a podiatrist who also supplies and fits shoes, I've come to realise that the only way to purchase a comfortable pair of shoes that will suit your individual needs is to have the shoes fitted to your feet. It's essential to try different sizes and different width fittings until you find the correct and most comfortable shoe for you. Variations in size with different brands mean that a certain size in one brand may not be the same in another.

Shoes are made on a three-dimensional wooden or plastic mold known as a shoe last. The last used during shoe assembly can affect the overall fit of a shoe. Even though all lasts include dimensions such as heel width, instep height, forefoot width, and toe box depth, some lasts feature a deeper toe box or a wider forefoot, while others might offer a narrower heel. This variability means it's worth taking the time to choose and try the shoes in shops.

Tips for Finding the Perfect Fit

Have Your Feet Measured: Just as you wouldn't buy shoes for your child without measuring their feet, it's important for adults to have their feet measured too. Accurate measurements can prevent many foot-related issues.

Try Before You Buy

Always try shoes on before purchasing. Walk around the store with both shoes on and wear the hosiery that you would normally wear with the shoes you're trying to buy. This ensures you get a realistic sense of how the shoes will feel during everyday use.

Consider Different Brands and Styles

Don't stick to one brand or style. Different brands use different lasts, which can significantly affect the fit. A size 8 in one brand may feel completely different in another.

Check for Width Fittings

Many people focus only on the length of the shoe, but width is equally important. Look for shoes that offer various width fittings to ensure a snug but comfortable fit.

Use a Foot Scanning Service

Some clinics, like ours in Basildon and Romford, offer foot scanning services. These scans provide valuable information about your arch type, pressure patterns, and exact size—all important factors when choosing the right shoe.

Seek Professional Advice

If you're unsure about what type of shoe is best for you, consult with a podiatrist or a footwear consultant. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific foot structure and needs.

Why It’s Worth the Effort

Investing time and effort into finding the right pair of shoes can save you from a host of foot problems. Properly fitting shoes provide the necessary support and comfort, preventing conditions such as hammertoes, bunions, and chronic pain. Moreover, wearing the right shoes can improve your posture and alleviate strain on your knees, hips, and back.

If you require shoe fitting advice or would like to try shoes that are supplied at the Basildon and Romford Surgeries, call us. Our Footwear Consultants, Sandra and Simone, will be happy to assist you, book your appointment.  With our foot scanning service, you can understand your foot structure comprehensively, helping you make informed decisions when purchasing shoes.

Remember, your feet carry you through life. Taking the time to find shoes that fit well is a crucial step in maintaining overall health and comfort.

To Book your Footscan call Basildon 01268 553653 or  Romford 01708 728498

Are you walking, hiking, or running? 

My patients are really pleased with Gehwol 

a refreshing and caring cream for tired and sore feet that really take a beating.

• Gehwol Foot cream has been known since 1882 
• The cream prevents aching feet, blisters, and soreness
• The anti-inflammatory effect prevents infections, brings the perspiration back to a normal level, and eliminates foot odour, and other side effects of excessive perspiration.           
• Gehwol foot cream strengthens the skin and leaves it more resilient. 
• Gehwol contains chloroxylenol and oil of thyme which deodorizes, disinfect, and help to protect from athletes’ foot. 
• Gehwol contains Camphor which stimulates the blood flow  
•  Gehwol contains menthol which  refreshes while the base ointment of medicated soap, Vaseline, lanolin and talcum protect the skin against wounds and blisters

We are stockits of Gehwol Foot cream.

Welcome to Dr.’s Remedy Enriched Nail Care

Podiatrist Formulated Nail Care
Brilliant Colours
Enriched Formula

Dr.’s REMEDY® is a line of podiatrist formulated nail care created by board certified podiatrists, Dr. Adam Cirlincione and Dr. William Spielfogel.

Our collection of products includes over thirty luxurious nail colours and as well as nail care solutions, which can minimize the appearance of dry brittle nails, hydrate nail cuticles and improve the wear-time of your nail colour.

Each product is infused with a special blend of ingredients selected by Dr. Cirlincione and Dr. Spielfogel.

This blend includes:
wheat protein,
tea tree oil,
garlic bulb extract and lavender.

Dr.’s Remedy is the best alternative nail care line for anyone who wants beautiful looking nails and wants to avoid formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, toluene and DBP. Dr.’s Remedy is vegan friendly and utilizes a range of organic ingredients.

Vist us to see full range

Do you often find yourself dealing with persistent foot pain and wondering if your weight might be a contributing factor? If so, you're not alone. Foot pain can be a significant barrier to staying active and losing weight, creating a frustrating cycle that many people struggle to break. Understanding the connection between weight and foot health is crucial for finding effective solutions and improving your overall well-being.

The Link Between Weight and Foot Health

Carrying excess weight can put additional stress on your feet, leading to various foot problems. Here are some common conditions that can be exacerbated by being overweight:

Osteoarthritis

This degenerative joint disease can affect the feet, causing pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Extra weight increases the pressure on your joints, accelerating the wear and tear process.

Type 2 Diabetes

Being overweight is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes, which can lead to complications such as neuropathy (nerve damage) and poor circulation. These issues can result in foot pain, ulcers, and infections.

Gout

Excess weight can increase uric acid levels in the blood, leading to gout. This form of arthritis causes sudden, severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints, often starting with the big toe.

Common Foot Pain Conditions Related to Weight

Several specific foot conditions are more prevalent or worsened by carrying extra pounds,

Plantar Fasciitis

This condition involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. Excess weight can strain this tissue, leading to heel pain and discomfort, especially upon waking up or after long periods of inactivity.

Posterior Tibial Tendonitis

This tendon supports the arch of your foot. When overburdened by extra weight, it can become inflamed or torn, resulting in pain along the inside of the ankle and foot.

Arthritis

Arthritis in the foot can cause significant pain and stiffness, particularly in the ankle and subtalar joint. Extra weight increases the load on these joints, worsening the symptoms.

Seeking Help from a Podiatrist

If you're experiencing foot pain and suspect that your weight may be a contributing factor, it's essential to seek professional help. A podiatrist can provide valuable guidance and treatment options to alleviate your pain and improve your foot health. Here are some ways a podiatrist can help,

Routine Foot Treatment

Regular check-ups and treatments can address issues such as calluses, corns, and nail problems, which can be particularly problematic for overweight individuals.

Foot Care Advice

Podiatrists can offer personalised advice on foot hygiene, exercises, and stretches to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.

Footwear Advice

Wearing the right shoes is crucial for managing foot pain. A podiatrist can recommend footwear that provides adequate support, cushioning, and stability to reduce strain on your feet.

Orthotics

Custom-made insoles or orthotics can help redistribute pressure, support your arches, and correct any biomechanical issues contributing to your pain. These devices can make walking more comfortable and help you stay active.

Breaking the Cycle

It's understandable that foot pain can make it challenging to engage in physical activities necessary for weight loss. However, taking the first step to address your foot health can create a positive feedback loop. As your foot pain decreases, you'll find it easier to incorporate more physical activity into your routine, which can help with weight loss and further reduce the strain on your feet.

Foot pain and weight are often interconnected, but with the right support and treatment, you can break the cycle and improve both your foot health and overall quality of life. Don't let foot pain hold you back—reach out to us for expert advice and personalised care. Together, we can develop a plan to alleviate your pain, support your feet, and take strides towards a healthier, more active lifestyle.

These are not just any socks
These are

The healthiest socks that you will ever wear.

Aetrex Copper Socks

Aetrex Socks, with Copper Sole™ Technology are

• Unsurpassed in comfort, performance, and protection.
• Clinically proven to help prevent bacteria, fungi, and odour.
• Improve skin texture and appearance.

Copper ions, embedded in the yarn and guaranteed to last for the life of the sock, provide superior protection and eliminate 99.9% of bacteria, fungi and odours commonly found in feet.

Read the amazing story of
how Copper Socks helped trapped
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Read more: Socks Again For Christmas

During the spring and summer months the skin around the heels can become dehydrated, hard and flaky due to sandal wear.  

Heel fissures, also known as cracked heels, can be a cosmetic problem but can also be painful, bleed and lead to serious medical problems if infection enters the broken skin.

Heel fissures can affect anyone, but risk factors include: living in a dry climate, being overweight, walking barefoot or wearing sandals or open-backed shoes. Diabetes, poor circulation and inactive sweat glands can also be predisposing factors, it is essential in these cases to have podiatric care to prevent further problems. 

Treatment and Prevention

Filing the heels using a foot file ( NOT a harse 'cheese grater type file) before a shower or bath can help to decrease the thick and flaky layer of skin, daily application of a suitable heel balm or foot moisturiser will help prevent dehydration and keep the skin supple and elastic.  Avoid going barefoot or wearing open-backed shoes, sandals or shoes with thin soles. Shoes with good heel shock absorption can help to improve the condition. 

If you are unable to resolve the condition then a visit to your podiatrist can help manage the problem, prevent complications and help the skin around the heels look much healthier!

Choosing a good moisturiser for your feet is essential for maintaining healthy, hydrated skin, especially as we age. The skin on our feet is prone to dryness due to its lack of oil glands and the constant pressure it endures. A quality foot moisturiser can prevent discomfort, cracking, and infections, but selecting the right one can be overwhelming with so many products on the market.

Do

• Massage the moisturiser into your feet each day
• Ask a podiatrist for advice if you are unsure
• Read the ingredients
• Exfoliate first, this will remove all the dead skin, allowing the cream to be absorbed
• Look for creams that have glycerin, urea, and hyaluronic acid as these attract moisture to the skin
• To soften the skin, choose creams with lanolin, mineral oil, and shea butter
• Oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, and jojoba oil can provide deep hydration and nourishment
• Look after your legs, carry on moisturising

Don't

• Buy one that contains alcohol, it can hinder the absorption of the cream into your feet
• Choose fragranced creams if you have sensitive skin

Bonus Tips

• For extra hydration, apply a thick layer before bed and wear cotton socks to increase absorption
• Drink plenty, at least 2 liters of water a day to stay hydrated

If you let your feet get cracked and fissures form, these can bleed and be painful, bacterial and fungal infections could get in and cause Athlete's Foot and verrucas, which are annoying to treat. Heel fissures are more likely if you have diabetes, are overweight, or walk barefoot a lot. It is essential in these cases to have podiatric care to prevent further problems. 

Prevention is always better than cure, so start looking after your feet today. Confidence is an added benefit of self-care. When you moisturise your feet, your feet and legs will look better, helping you feel better about yourself. When you take care of your feet, you will notice if any other changes happen, verrucas, corns, or bunions form, and you can then organise treatment quicker- it's a double win!

If you’re unsure which moisturiser is best for your feet, get in touch. We can recommend products based on your specific skin type and any underlying conditions. Professional advice is particularly important if you have persistent dryness, cracks, or other foot issues that do not improve with over-the-counter products.

Every spring, our patients come to our practice wanting to make their feet presentable for sandals, holidays, and parties after a long winter of neglect. As feet emerge from months of being stuffed into shoes and boots, it's essential to establish good foot care habits that can prevent problems and keep your feet healthy all year round.

Since proper foot care can prevent many common issues, we’re always eager to offer self-help advice. Here are some top tips to get you started on the road to happier, healthier feet as the warmer (hopefully!) weather approaches.

1. Cut Toenails Properly

Before taking a bath or shower, trim your toenails using nail nippers. We advise against using clippers and nail scissors, as they can be difficult to control and ineffective for very thick or hard nails. Follow the natural shape of your nail, but avoid cutting down the sides to prevent ingrown toenails. Use a large nail file to smooth out sharp corners, ensuring the free end of the nail is level with the tip of your toe. Remember, do not cut your nails too short.

2. Avoid Prolonged Use of Nail Varnish

Leaving nail varnish on for weeks or even months can damage the nail underneath, causing it to become discoloured and unhealthy. Give your nails a break from varnish to allow them to breathe and recover. If your nails are brittle or discolored, apply a nail conditioner after washing to improve their condition.

3. Maintain Proper Skin Care

Healthy skin is vital for comfortable feet. Lightly file dry and cracked skin, especially around the heels, before washing. Avoid harsh ‘cheese grater’ type files as they can tear and damage the skin. After washing, dry your feet thoroughly and apply a moisturising heel balm daily to keep the skin soft and supple.

4. Address Foot Issues Promptly

If you have corns, calluses, athlete’s foot, verrucae, or cracked heels, it’s beneficial to book an appointment. These conditions can worsen if not properly managed, and we can assess underlying causes,  provide treatment, and offer advice on self-help and long-term management.

5. Regular Foot Inspections

Check your feet regularly for any signs of problems such as blisters, cuts, or infections. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, preventing minor issues from becoming major problems.

6. Wear Appropriate Footwear

As you switch to summer footwear, choose well-fitting sandals that provide support and avoid flip-flops that can lead to foot pain and injuries. Make sure your summer shoes are comfortable and suited to your activities to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.

We offer a special service where we can demonstrate proper foot care techniques using recommended instruments and products. Taking care of your feet is a year-round responsibility. If you have any concerns or need personalised advice, please do not hesitate to contact us.