How To Buy Comfortable Shoes That Won't Cause Health Difficulties

One of the most important aspects of health is also the most overlooked
by most people. How you walk, and how your feet fit inside your shoes
can have a dramatic impact on your health. From spinal problems to
problems with internal organs, and improper fitting pair of shoes can be
absolutely devastating.



Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to make sure you don't
suffer the consequences that millions of Americans do every year. By
choosing your shoes wisely, you'll have a better posture, a straighter
spine, and less skeletal complications as you age. In this article,
you'll learn a few simple tips to use when buying shoes.



The first thing to consider is the length of the shoe. Many people buy
shoes that are too short. This can damage the metatarsal bones in the
foot, as well as the surrounding tendons, which can dramatically change
the way you walk, which can affect your hips, shoulders, and spine.



The best way to make sure that your shoe is long enough is to make a
measuring rod, or stick. First take a blank sheet of paper, and stand on
it, putting your full weight on your feet. Have somebody trace the line
around your foot. Next, take a flat wooden stick, and cut it so the
length is half an inch longer than the longest point of your foot
outline. When you shop for shoes, simply bring this flat stick along,
and put it inside the shoe. If you can easily put it in with the stick
bending, then the shoe is long enough.



Another important aspect of shoes is the width. A shoe that is too
narrow can also cause many problems, as it cramps the metatarsal bones
in your foot. In order to make sure you shoes are wide enough, make a
second measuring stick. Make the second stick a quarter of an inch
longer than the widest part of your foot. When are checking out a new
pair of shoes, simply put the stick inside, and if it fits inside the
shoe without bending, then the shoes are wide enough.



The third thing to be aware of is arch support. Since you've chosen a
pair of shoes that are long enough and wide enough, there are plenty of
arch support inserts that you can buy to give you additional support.
These can provide additional cushioning and support, and drastically
decrease any back or neck problems you may be experiencing. Just be sure
to replace the arch support every six months or so, as they tend to
break down rather quickly.



When you take these simple extra steps, you can notice a dramatic
increase in your health and well being. You'll stand taller, sleep
better, and experience more comfort when standing or walking.