Feet change and that can be a big surprise

Suddenly your favorite brand of shoe just doesn’t feel right. Not as comfy. Seems kind of snug. What did that company do to change the best shoe they made?

Maybe nothing.

Our feet change and they change as we age. That can come as a surprise because everyone expects their appearance or hair to change in later life, but feet?

Sadly, yes.

According to orthopedists, it’s not that feet actually grow, but they can flatten and become wider and longer.

Those with rheumatoid arthritis might realize it early, since they can see ligament and bone changes in their body as a whole.

Diabetics, who must be monitor their feet for circulation and sensation, might not be surprised to see their shoe fit change.

Still, everyone of a certain age, has to recognize that their shoe size might be changing or has changed.

What happens is arches tend to flatten, making the foot longer. Ligaments loosen up, making the foot wider.

In fact, over time, we all see our shoe size increase by at least a half size and maybe more.

Here is what you can do: Don’t keep buying the same shoe size.

You’ve bought three pair of shoes in the last six months and none seem to fit as you expect. Try going up a size or half size. Go for a looser shoe. Make sure it is comfortable when you first try them on. Never try to ‘break in’ a shoe.

– Try on shoes at the end of the day, when feet are a little swollen.

– Consider an orthodic insole if you notice a loss in the arch height.