How good is Spring? The warmer weather longer days….but best of all we get to release our feet from boots, closed shoes and into your favourite pair of thongs or sandals. BUT, this transition can be a pain in the….foot! Finding the right shoe, sandal or thong can be a nightmare. The wrong choice can lead to foot pain, arch pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles pain or even hip and lower back pain. Here are some helpful tips when looking at new footwear this spring
Tip #1 – Buying the right size!
Sounds like common sense. But I think we have all purchased a pair of shoes / thongs because they “looked” great but may not have been our correct size! Your shoe should fit well, with the heel cupped nicely at the back of the shoe. Your toes shouldn’t feel like they have to grip the shoes to keep them on. This may indicate the shoe is too big. This can lead to foot pain as the small muscles of the foot are being over worked, become a fatigued and may fail to provide support.
Tip #2: Thongs
Who doesn’t love a thong. We’re Aussies after all. But they are generally highly flexible and lack much support. Worn for prolonged periods of time can lead to heel pain, foot pain and arch pain. Not to mention flare up and already painful foot. We advise our patients to seek a thong with a better support structure. Archies, Birkenstocks Orthaheel are all great supportive thongs. Their contoured shape is designed to help support the foot, minimising the chance of foot pain.
Note: Equilibrium Sports and Spinal is now stocking Archies!
Come in and grab your pair so your feet don’t miss out this summer
Tip #3 : Sandals
Maybe a sandal is a better option for summer. But look for a sandal that is going to support the heel and arch. Having straps makes it easer to achieve that perfect fit for your foot. It also reduces the chance of the foot slipping around too much. These straps also protect the foot muscles from over working as they don’t need to work as hard to keep the shoe on your foot. Leading to a reduced chance of experiencing foot pain and arch pain.
Tip #4 Heels and Foot Pain
We can’t talk about summer shoes without mentioning heels. We suggest a “little” heel with a wider base. Elevating the heel can relieve some arch, Achilles and lower back pain. Avoiding a Stiletto type shoes is preferred. Long periods in these can lead to instability ( especially towards the end of the night) and twisted ankles. Not to mention squashing the toes and contributing to the formation of bunions.
Tip#5 : Go Barefoot!
The feeling of fresh cut grass on your toes and feet is incredible. But moderation is the key. Having zero support on your feet will force the muscles to work hard. This can, as with wearing genetic thongs lead to more heel pain, arch pain, and joint pain if carried out for too long. Short bursts is the key. 
So get out there, enjoy the sunshine and beaches. And remember wearing sensible footwear will allow you to keep enjoying these activities, pain free and out of the treatment room. Your FUTURE feet will also thank you.
At Equilibrium Sports and Spinal clinic we thrive on helping Glen Iris and Malvern locals who need a little help with foot pain. Our Osteopaths service Malvern, Glen Iris, Ashburton, Toorak, South Yarra, Hawthorn and Caulfield. Let us help guide you to better health and wellbeing, ensuring you have strong and stable feet without pain!
Any Questions?
Feel free to email us at info@equilibriumsas.com.au .We are also more than happy to chat via our blue Drift Chat box in the bottom right hand corner.
