Ask a doctor: How do I find the right shoe to avoid foot and ankle problems?

Q: How do I find the right shoe to avoid foot and ankle problems?

A: Chronic use of tight or high-heeled shoes can have an impact on your foot and ankle health. Shoes with a very high heel and a narrow toe constrict the foot and can cause pain and deformity. If you must wear high heels, try to select styles with a lower heel and rounded toe. There are many criteria from which to choose when shopping for shoes, so it's helpful to have a good idea of what you're looking for and what you will be doing while wearing the shoes. One of the best shoes for day-to-day activities is an athletic shoe. Look for a nicely cushioned sole to absorb the impact of the ground and a wide toe box that allows room for your toes to wiggle without being compressed together. Generally, comfort is the most important factor when considering a shoe.

- Dr. Jesse F. Doty, Southern Orthopaedic Trauma Surgeons; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society

Readers: Email questions to Clint Cooper at ccooper @timesfreepress.com.

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