A simple step to achieve happy feet during Christmas shopping

Holiday shopping often means long hours on foot while combing crowded malls or night markets to find the perfect gifts. Without the right footwear, these activities can result in foot pain, discomfort, or even long-term issues. Experts emphasize that selecting proper shoes is essential for maintaining foot health and ensuring a pain-free experience during the Christmas rush.

Dr. Charles Rainier Arandia, MD of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Makati Medical Center, highlights the critical role feet play in overall well-being.

“Our feet provide balance and stability for our entire body. They aren’t only meant to help us run and walk, but they also help prevent falls and injuries and maintain good posture,” he explained.

One common mistake that leads to a range of foot problems is simply wearing ill-fitting shoes.

Experts emphasize that selecting proper shoes is essential for ensuring a pain-free experience during the Christmas rush. FREE IMAGE FROM PIXABAY.COM 

Dr. Arandia pointed out that many individuals are unaware they often wear shoes that are too small, which can negatively impact foot health.

“You could suffer from bunions and corns from wearing narrow shoes as well as plantar fasciitis and blisters if they’re too big or if they don’t have enough arch support.”

Neglecting proper footwear can also impact other parts of the body. Misaligned feet due to unsuitable shoes may strain the knees, hips, and lower back, causing pain and imbalance.

“Improper shoe fit alters gait, throws off overall balance, and can even lead to chronic back pain,” warned Arandia.

To prevent such problems, Arandia said finding the right shoe fit is crucial. Many people stick to an outdated shoe size for years, unaware that feet can change over time.

The expert advised, “If you’re buying a new pair, measure your foot length from the tip of the big toe to the outer part of the heel at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest and leave about a finger’s width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Also check the width of your foot as the shoes should comfortably fit the ball of the foot and allow the toes to spread out naturally to improve stability.”

Arch type is another key consideration. Those with high arches benefit from shoes with cushioned midsoles to absorb shock, while individuals with flat feet need stable midsoles for added support. When getting a new pair, testing shoes by walking and standing in them is essential to avoid chafing or slipping.

Activity level should also guide footwear choices. For instance, those walking extensively during commutes or shopping trips should prioritize shoes with adequate support and protection.

In ending, Arandia reminded that investing in properly fitted shoes ensures not only pain-free shopping but also long-term foot health.

So, whether tackling Christmas errands or daily routines, the right footwear is a simple yet effective step toward achieving “happy feet.”