Boots are very popular, especially in autumn and winter. When choosing boots, however, you should pay attention to a few factors, as they not only affect the health of the feet, but the health of the whole body. The podiatrist Dr Nicole Nicolosi of the Cleveland Clinic in the United States explains what to look for in boots.
“Foot health should be a priority when buying shoes“, underlines the expert in a news Press release. Because, according to Dr. Nicole Nicolosi has negative effects on health that should not be underestimated.
Health problems caused by bad shoes
Most people probably don’t consider whether they can contribute to bunions or hammer toes when buying new shoes. But these are possible consequences of flat shoes.
The expert explains that the choice of shoes can also have negative effects on the knees, hips and back.
Shoes should provide adequate support
“It’s all about the alignment and support of your feet“, highlighted Nicolosi. If neither is given, each step leads to an incorrect charge, which then leads to deformations and can lead to chronic pain.
What should be considered when buying boots?
If you know and take into account certain basics, according to the podiatrist, choosing the right boots is not a problem. Boots must have the following properties in order to foot health strengthen:
wide space for the toes,
good arch support as a solid foundation for posture and movement,
good side stability, so the shoe cannot easily twist or bend.
Insoles improve comfort
Besides, they can Use of insoles increase comfort when wearing shoes. Special deposits are also useful for people suffering from a diabetic neuropathy suffering and whose nerves in the legs and feet are damaged.
Pay attention to high-quality materials
shoes must be removed high quality materials be made because the wrong materials may cause the feet not breathing properly can, resulting in sweaty feet and formation of bacteria can lead, explains the expert.
Shoes made from non-porous materials (including rain boots) should be flexible and not press hard on the ankles, toes and heels, Nicolosi said.
Advantages and disadvantages of popular shoe models
The podiatrist also goes into the particularities of certain boots particularly appreciated by women.
High heel boots
According to the expert, wearing high-heeled shoes is associated with the fact that due to the unfavorable angle of the feet to a Achilles tendon contraction may then come the emergence of a Achilles tendonitis favored.
Moreover, existing capsule inflammation (inflamed joint capsules) and neuromas (thickened nerve tissue between the toes) may be aggravated by wearing high-heeled shoes and high-heeled boots onions cause or aggravate, according to Nicolosi.
sheepskin boots
Sheepskin boots can be comfortable and warm, but when it comes to foot health, the situation is quite different. This type of boots usually offers almost no arch or ankle supportwhich, according to the expert, can lead to a Racing style with bent ankles developed.
In addition, the warm and soft interior of the sheepskin shoes is too ideal for the development of bacteria and fungiwhich according to Dr. Nicolosi infections and rashes can trigger.
The doctor advises people who absolutely want to wear sheepskin boots to Use of insolesonly a supplement arch support To offer.
Due to hygiene should be in these boots always wear sockswhich minimize the contact between the inner material and the skin and, in addition, the boots must disinfected regularly become, recommends Dr. Nicolosi.
wedge boots
The heels of these boots can be worn with a extra pressure on the forefoot to be connected. Another problem with these boots is that they little lateral support To offer. This can be especially problematic with flat feet or unstable ankles.
Additionally, you should also avoid wearing wedge boots if you have issues like neuromas Where capsule inflammation suffers, points out Dr. Nicolosi.
Riding boots
These boots have the advantage of generally having a relatively low heel have and the extra deep round toe is particularly beneficial in case of problems such as bunions or hammer toes.
A problem with riding boots, however, is that their Sole often flat and too stiff is. This can lead to foot pain such as Plantar Fasciitis foster. However, these disadvantages can also be corrected by insoles.
cowboy boots
Typical cowboy boots have pointed toes. This is because they are much easier to slide into the stirrups when riding. On a daily basis, cowboy boots are with their narrow toe area no longer a problem.
“In the long term, this type of impact on the toes can lead to inflammation or thickening of the nerves in the forefoot. This can cause numbness, tingling and burning“, has explained Doctor Nicolosi.
In addition, their shape makes cowboy boots unsuitable for people with Bunions or hammertoes. Moreover, with this type of shoe, the arch support be problematic.
Only buy shoes that fit you
If a shoe doesn’t fit properly in the store, it won’t change later at home. “Listen to what your feet are telling you and put the boots back on the shelf. You will find something that fits better“, like that Doctor Nicolosi.
She also recommends shoes change regularly, because wearing different shoes for shorter periods of time reduces targeted stress on the feet, legs, joints and spine. (as)
Author and source information
This text corresponds to the specifications of the specialized medical literature, medical guidelines and current studies and has been verified by health professionals.
Sources:
Cleveland Clinic: What types of boots are the healthiest for your feet? (published on 07/10/2022), Cleveland Clinic
Important Note: This article contains general advice only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. It cannot substitute a visit to the doctor.
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