The primary function of footwear is to protect the feet. However, increasingly, people focus more on aesthetics than on the protective function of shoes. As a result, many individuals experience foot pain, sprains, and other foot-related issues due to wearing inappropriate footwear.
Research in the United States shows that up to 72% of Americans do not wear properly fitting shoes. Among them, nearly 40% suffer from foot problems caused by their footwear. Consequently, one-third of those with foot-related conditions require surgery, and one-fifth resort to ongoing treatment.
Dr. Thai Thi Hong Anh, head of the Orthopedics Department at Nguyen Tri Phuong Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, states that an increasing number of people are seeking foot examinations. Common foot disorders include: numbness, sharp pain, difficulty moving, plantar fasciitis, overlapping toes, toenail necrosis, nail fungus, and nerve inflammation—all related to wearing shoes that do not fit correctly or suit the type of foot.
For instance, Ms. Hong experiences sharp pain in her heels and feet, which the doctor attributes to wearing high heels. She does not believe this, claiming, “A friend of mine who is the same age and has a similar build wears the same type of shoes as I do but does not have foot pain.” This is a typical case among many individuals who misunderstand the relationship between their feet and footwear.
Doctors explain that researchers categorize human feet into five types, each with distinct characteristics. Egyptian feet have the first toe (big toe) as the longest. Greek feet have the second toe as the longest (this is the standard foot type and the easiest to find suitable shoes). Square feet have the second and third toes of equal length. The two types that often cause the most trouble are mixed feet, which have five toes that spread out, and prehistoric feet, which have the first toe curling inward (also known as “Giao Chi” feet). Additionally, the lengths of the ligaments and Achilles tendons vary among individuals. People with shorter Achilles tendons may not stretch adequately when wearing the same style of shoes, making them prone to ankle sprains and heel pain.
The size of human feet changes with age. As people grow older, their feet tend to expand both in length and width. Studies indicate that daily activities also affect foot size; the more one moves, the larger the feet can become. Notably, pregnant women approaching their due date often have feet that are at least a size larger than usual. Therefore, it is essential to measure foot size regularly to select the appropriate shoe size.
Currently, there are various types of shoes on the market, but each type is suitable for specific foot types:
- Ballet shoes with low, flat soles: suitable for flexible and sturdy arches (like ballet dancers).
- High heels are appropriate for those with Greek foot types and unsuitable for those who engage in vigorous activity.
- Charles IX style shoes: feature a horizontal strap to provide stability and reduce friction between the foot and the shoe.
- Moccasin shoes have a wide collar and moderate sole thickness, suitable for people with hand and spine issues (no need to bend down to put them on).
- Ankle boots provide excellent stability, especially beneficial for those with prosthetic limbs.
- High-heeled boots serve only aesthetic purposes and do not provide protection, often compromising ankle stability and knee joints.
Since there are many different types of feet with unique characteristics, individuals need to be aware of a few principles when selecting shoes. Commonly encountered foot conditions include: Egyptian feet often have issues with the big toe, as people frequently wear tight shoes with high heels and pointed toes, causing the big toe to bend or deform due to pressure from other toes. Mixed feet and prehistoric feet that frequently wear flip-flops can develop calluses, crooked toes, plantar fasciitis, leading to pain in the soles, toenail pain, nail fungus, and nerve inflammation.
Feet with arches that point outward can cause tarsal tunnel syndrome, resulting in numbness from the ankle to the toes, potentially extending to the knees. Feet with slightly curved arches may lead to abrasions, increasing the risk of infection and ulceration in the affected areas. Additionally, individuals with disproportionately small feet but larger body sizes often encounter foot problems due to the body’s weight exceeding the foot’s capacity. Wearing shoes or sandals that are too wide can also lead to foot conditions, as the feet must exert excessive force to maintain balance.
All foot conditions impact our mobility. Therefore, Dr. Hong Anh advises everyone to follow specific guidelines when selecting shoes:
Shoe heel rules: The heel height should not exceed 5 cm, and the heel drop should not exceed 2.5 cm. The heel width should be greater than 2 cm, and the slope should not exceed 10 degrees.
How to measure shoe size for individuals: Measure the length from the heel to the longest toe, adding 2/3 cm. The width is measured from the fifth toe bone to the first toe bone. If the measurements of both feet differ, choose the size based on the larger foot.
Some tips for recognizing a quality pair of shoes:
Select shoes with a sturdy sole and a flexible toe (a quality shoe bends without losing its original shape). The toe should have a moderate upward curve for easy movement. The shoe shape should match the foot’s contour (it is best to turn the shoe upside down to trial fit the foot against the shoe). The heel should fit snugly and be perpendicular to the back of the shoe. Carefully check the seams to ensure they do not cause discomfort when wearing the shoes. Shoes that cause pain or discomfort should be avoided as they can lead to foot conditions.
It is advisable to purchase shoes in the afternoon when foot size is at its maximum. Pregnant women particularly need to adjust their shoe sizes to accommodate changes over time.
To address foot conditions related to footwear, doctors recommend promptly changing shoes to better suit the foot. Additional insoles can be used to support the feet. Consulting a doctor before taking antibiotics for inflammatory, swollen, or painful conditions is wise. For severe cases, a doctor’s visit is necessary for proper treatment. Pregnant women should walk regularly to reduce foot swelling.
Dr. Hong Anh warns that wearing massage sandals with textured soles is not advisable when standing or walking for more than 30 minutes. Individuals with foot conditions or diabetes should absolutely avoid this type of sandal as it can be detrimental to foot veins.
In any case of foot pain or swelling, do not massage or apply ointments to the painful areas or lumps, as this may exacerbate the issue. Individuals with diabetes should not massage or soak their feet in hot water, nor should they apply ointments, as this can worsen vein conditions. For healthy individuals, foot massages and hot soaks are permissible but should not exceed 30 minutes at a time. If discomfort or pain occurs, stop immediately to avoid injury.
Dr. Hong Anh advises against self-cutting calluses on the feet, as this can lead to infections. It is best to seek medical assistance for proper treatment. Cutting the corners of the toenails can lead to ingrown toenails, causing swelling and pain. Therefore, individuals should refrain from cutting the corners of their toenails.
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