Our feet bear an enormous burden of daily living. as well as carrying the weight of our body, they must also twist and flex with increased impact and strain when we move around.

Even through simple day-to-day activities such as standing and walking, our feet can be injured if not properly supported. Shoes play a vital role in this as well as protecting our feet from external dangers.

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Footwear can be just as important as orthoses and correct fitting and supportive footwear (according to your foot type) is critical for your foot health. At By the Bay we can assist you by recommending suitable list of footwear and shoe stores that will suit your needs.

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The ideal shoe

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There is no such thing as the ideal shoe, feet come in many shapes and sizes, and are involved in many activities. Generally though, when you buy new shoes, it's important to make sure:

• they fit properly

• they are supportive for the kind of activity you engage in

• they do not cause damage to your feet or hurt in anyway

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The importance of a good fit

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Choosing shoes that fit well is an important part of caring for your feet. Finding the right fit may mean you have to look at a few different styles to accommodate your particular foot shape.

Because feet are rarely the same size it is important that you fit your shoes to the larger foot. An experienced footwear sales person can help you with this. since most shoe manufacturers have their own size range, you should make the decisions on what feels right.

People who have misshapen feet from an injury or medial condition such as arthritis or diabetes, may require shoes with extra depth or width. Some people may require orthoses, and occasionally custom made shoe will be most suitable. These should be prescribed by a Podiatrist.

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Shoe buying tips

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When buying new shoes, keep in mind the following:

• Materials : leather is the preferred option for shoe uppers, synthetic or rubber are best for the sole as they are generally more durable, shock absorbent and provide better grip.

• Security: shoes should be secured on the feet with laces, straps or buckles - especially walking shoes. If your feet have to work to hold your shoes in place, your foot muscles may be strained.

• Shape : Pointy shoes can make your toes 'claw'. This may effect overall body posture and clenched toes can cause rubbing, leading to corns and callouses and bunion deformities. Broad toed shoes allow the toes more room and can help prevent pressure injuries.

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Handy Tips :

• your toes should not touch the end of your shoes or you may damage your nails and toes - you need a gap of about 1 cm from the end of your toe to the shoe.

• shoe should be broad enough and deep enough. If you can see the outline of your foot pressing against the shoes, they are probably the wrong fit

• don't buy shoes that need breaking in , they should be comfortable immediately

• shop for shoes later in the day - most feet tend to swell during the day and it is best to fit shoes when your feet are the largest

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Also Check the following:

 

• Your shoes have a well padded sole - a cushioned sole absorbs shock and reduces pressure on the feet

• Your shoes are made from natural material that breathes - fungal infections such as tines love a warm mosit wound environment. Absorptive socks can help drawing moisture away.

• Your shoes protect you from injury - your feet must be protected from your immediate environment. People with reduced circulation and sensation need to be especially careful they do not injury their feet

• The heel of your shoe is less than 2.5cm (1inch) - high heels increase pressure on the ball of the foot

• Footwear at work - If you work in a field that increases the chance of injury to your feet, safety shoes are vital. Safety shoes and boots protect your feet, help prevent injuries and reduce the severity of injuries that occur in the work place. If you are in a job when you spend all day on your feet on hard surfaces , shoes with adequate support and cushioning are vital also to prevent strain injuries such as plantar fasciitis.

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We stock range of footwear at the clinic and also extensive knowledge and great relationships with local footwear supplies to find you the right shoe for whatever your needs. 

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