Walking or athletic shoes are
a good choice for everyday wear.
For vigorous activities such as
hiking, it’s even more important
to find a shoe that fits well and
gives protection to your feet
and ankles. “There’s a lot of
up-and-down movement when
you hike, so it’s important to
stop and check your feet
regularly,” advises Dini.
While wearing sandals
and flip-flops may seem like
the perfect way to stay cool
during warmer months, open-
toe styles don’t safeguard
your toes and feet. “The
straps can also put pressure
across the foot and lead to
sores,” says nurse and certified
diabetes educator David Miller.
Try them on
There’s only one way to tell
if a shoe fits – try it on. Since
your feet change shape and
size over time, have them
measured by a certified shoe
fitter or pedorthist each time
you buy new shoes (you can
find one at pedorthics.org.au).
Shop at the end of the day
when your feet tend to be
bigger. And, if you have
inserts or orthotics, don’t
forget to bring them!
When you try on a pair of
shoes, stand up. “You should
have about 2.5cm of room at
the end of your toes,” says
Karen Andrews, an associate
professor in the Department
of Physical Medicine and ➤1
Check your feet every
day. Look for redness,
swelling, blisters, or skin or
nail changes. Use a mirror
or ask for help if you have
trouble seeing your feet.2
Wash your feet daily.
Use warm, not hot,
water and dry well after
washing, especially between
your toes.3
Keep your toenails
trimmed. Your
podiatrist can help you
with this.4
Don’t go barefoot.
It’s easy to step on
something and hurt your
feet, so keep them covered- indoors and out.
5
Shake out your shoes.
There may be a stray
rock (or LEGO!) hiding inside.6
Visit your podiatrist.
Get a complete foot
exam annually (or every
2-3 months if you have
neuropathy).)"11:
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