We all know that there are studies that tell us of the horrible germs that wearing shoes can bring into our houses. We walk into public restrooms, on the city streets, in stores that may or may not really ever be disinfected properly – but what if instead of needing to go barefoot in the house, we actually should be just changing from our street shoes to our house shoes? Not your Grandma’s slippers – but shoes that provide support for your entire body?
Prevent Arch Pain!
Fallen arch is a condition where the sole of the foot basically completely contacts the ground; if you mark where your foot touches, there is no significant portion of the arch that is raised to give one a natural arch. This comes with age, over time and 30% of adults fall into the category of having one or both feet that have never developed arches properly. Wearing good shoes, such as sneakers or running shoes that offer arch support, you can improve your posture and comfort and prevent trouble from fallen arches.
Certain conditions may put you at further risk for developing fallen arches:
- Having had broken bones
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
Especially if you’re going barefoot during this time, you may suspect you’re having issues with fallen arches if you are having the following symptoms:
- Feet tiring easily
- Arches and pain in the feet
- The arch area becomes swollen
- Standing on your toes is difficult
- Certain back and leg pain linked to your feet
Going barefoot will not help this situation, although it is a temptation when you are just around the house as many are during the Covid19 pandemic. Adding orthotic insoles to your shoes, wearing arch supports, and other shoe modifications can also be extremely beneficial in preventing swelling, allowing daily activities, and prevent worsening of the condition especially in how the legs, hips, and back can be affected by fallen arches. The correct footwear for your activities is crucial for supporting your entire body.
Prevent Plantar Fasciitis
Similarly, high arches can cause pain and issues such as the following:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Metatarsalgia
- Claw toes
- Hammertoes
- Foot and ankle instability
If you are unfamiliar with plantar fasciitis, it is a condition involving a type of inflammation in the thick band of tissue at the bottom of the foot that goes between your toes and heel. Worn with proper shoes, plantar fasciitis socks can help with swelling and pain; they work by compressing the arches of the feet. They provide support as well as increase the blood flow. These socks can even be worn overnight to relieve symptoms caused by high arches.
Avoid Pain in the Legs, Thighs, Lower Back, Hips, and Ankles
Wearing shoes allows you to wear orthotic inserts if needed. Orthotics are worn in the shoes to correct certain foot issues such as problems with how you walk, stand, or run. Doing these activities without proper support over time can cause foot pain and injuries. Issues with the legs and mobility may be caused by other medical conditions such as the following:
- Diabetes
- Plantar fasciitis
- Bursitis
- Arthritis
Taking care of your feet and giving your body proper support may even help you to avoid surgery which could be even more complicated by having other medical conditions.
