CHOOSE THE RIGHT FOOTWEAR

Podiatrist Laura Dicken from the Podology clinic in Saltburn-by-the-sea, Yorkshire, says:

Don’t buy shoes online ‘Unless it’s a brand you know well, avoid ordering shoes on the internet, as you should always try them on first. Try on shoes in the afternoon to allow for fluid build-up.’ Buy tight shoes shoes, that you fit can ‘If force you’re changes wearing to the delicate bones. Persistently wearing ill-fitting shoes creates pressure and friction leading to painful blisters, corns between the toes and calluses under the foot, as well as general aches and pains.’ Invest in a pair of trainers ‘Good shoes act like shock absorbers to protect the feet. Trainers anchor your foot in place and have a cushioned sole, so they’re great if you’re doing lots of activity.’

Follow the three-strap rule ‘Your feet should be anchored into your shoe to provide maximum support. The best sandals have an ankle strap, a strap going up the length of the foot, and one across the base of the toes.’ She also advises avoiding backless shoes if you can, where your scrunched-up toes cling on to the shoes. ‘The muscles have to work extra hard, so you start to get aches and pains.’ Choose wedges over heels ‘Wedges distribute the weight around the foot, whereas high heels put all the pressure on the heel and the big toe, leading to friction and pain. Wearing heels all the time means your Achilles tendon shortens because it never gets exercise, leading to pain. If you must wear them, don’t wear them every day so your feet get a chance to recover.’ Don’t wear flip-flops all the time! Save them for days at the beach – the flat, flimsy base offers no support to feet.