Do you ever consider your foot’s arch when choosing shoes? Your arches have key jobs as you go about your daily life. Arches help with movement propulsion and weight-bearing. They bring stability as well as flexibility to your foot. Taking your foot arches into account as you buy shoes can not only provide comfortability and a more secure fit, but it can also help alleviate foot pain and prevent any conditions from arising, like bunions.
3 Arch Types
- A neutral or medium arch is usually biomechanically efficient.
- Flat feet or low arches occur when the arches don’t properly form during childhood or may result from an injury.
- High arches are often hereditary and don’t absorb shock, as well as neutral arches.
What type of arch do you have? You can determine your arch type at home. Step onto a flattened brown shopping bag or a dark floor tile with wet feet. You will be able to see the outline of your foot.
- A neutral arch will show about half of the arch area filled in.
- With flat feet, you will be able to see the complete outline of your foot.
- Those with high arches will see little, if any, imprint from the arch area.
How To Choose the Right Shoe for Your Arch Type
Wearing the right shoes for your arch type is essential for optimal foot health. The proper shoe can help prevent muscle and ligament strains, stress fractures, and overuse injuries like plantar fasciitis.
- If you have a neutral arch, you can wear just about any shoe that fits well and doesn’t crowd the toes.
- Those with flat feet should invest in comfortable shoes that stabilize the arch and heel areas. Custom-fitted orthotics can help supply additional shock absorption if needed. Shop for shoes with added cushioning that helps reduce friction and control foot balance.
- An individual with high arches needs a cushioned and supportive shoe that is flexible without much motion control. Wearing walking shoes that are too rigid can cause blisters and foot pain.
Still wondering how you can choose the right shoes? Give us a call! We will assess your foot arch and guide you in choosing the best shoes for your unique feet.
Here at Georgia Podiatry, we believe in providing optimal foot, ankle, and leg care to our clients. Dr. Evan Brody, Dr. Harshil Patel, Dr. Erin Cupolo, and the rest of the staff at our Kennesaw and Austell locations are ready and eager to help treat your feet. Call us at 678-310-0540 to make an appointment today.