Lifestyle
Podiatrist Reveals the 3 Shoes to Avoid for Healthier Feet
Foot health is an often overlooked aspect of overall wellness, yet the shoes we choose can significantly impact our joints, bones, and posture. Podiatrists, who specialize in foot and ankle health, stress the importance of selecting footwear that supports and protects our feet. Paul Macaulay, a podiatrist based in Singapore, uses his TikTok platform to educate people about the best and worst footwear choices.
One type of footwear Macaulay strongly advises against is the flip-flop.
“When you put your foot through the loops, you have to grip onto the shoe, and that can cause claw toeing,” he explains.
Additionally, flip-flops offer little support, increasing the risk of tripping and falling. Over time, these factors can lead to aches, pains, and calluses.
Another shoe style that Macaulay cautions against is the stiletto heel. While they may look fashionable, the thin base of stilettos makes stabilization difficult, posing a high risk of injury.
“Such a high risk of injury isn’t worth it, even to look nice,” Macaulay notes, mentioning a colleague who broke her foot after a fall in stilettos.
High heels can also contribute to bunions, hammertoes, and a shortened Achilles tendon. However, not all heels are off-limits.
“A one-and-a-half-inch heel is OK for most people,” Macaulay advises, suggesting block heels as a safer alternative.
Surprisingly, Macaulay also advises against certain types of Skechers sneakers, particularly the slip-on versions.
“The slip-on ones are made tighter to hold onto your feet and can squeeze your toes and cause problems such as neuromas,” he says.
Neuromas involve thickened tissue on the ball of the foot, resulting in pain. Furthermore, the softness of these shoes means your feet have to work harder, leading to fatigue.
“They wear out so quickly, and even though they seem like a great deal, you must replace them every one to two months,” Macaulay adds, questioning their value.
For those seeking healthier alternatives, Macaulay recommends boat shoes with removable insoles.
He praises the Burnished Tan Leather Boat Shoes from Bared Footwear for their “mechanical footbed” and customizable insoles.
These features allow for a better fit and added support, with ample space to prevent cramped toes. The small block heel also helps reduce stress on the calf and Achilles tendon.
“That prevents a lot of people’s issues,” Macaulay concludes, highlighting the importance of choosing shoes that promote foot health.
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