“Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose.” – Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr
You may be familiar with this French saying, meaning “the more things change, the more they stay the same.” For example – we’ve had a lot of change in our country the last few weeks, right? But whether you’re with the new administration or not so sure, it’s still all politics!
Why quote a 19th century French journalist here? Because when it comes to the idea of change, it’s important to realize that even though our feet remain feet all our lives, they do change over time! Specifically, we should never be lulled into thinking that our foot stays the same size throughout our entire adult lives.
Foot size can change
Most people’s feet are going to get bigger as they age, but if you’re not aware of it, you might just keep buying and wearing the same shoe size you wore when you were 18 and trying to decide whether to vote for Ford or Carter. But cramming your foot into the size shoe you wore in 1976 can lead to a number of foot problems:
- Bunion: a bony bumps at the base of the big toe that can get inflamed and painful
- Ingrown toenails: nails that grow into the skin at the sides of the nailbed
- Corns and calluses: the buildup of skin into hard layers on the parts of your foot that are subject to constant pressure
- Hammertoes: abnormal bends in the toes – usually the second, third, or fourth toe
Measure up!
To help avoid suffering from any of these foot deformities, make it a point to get your foot professionally measured every year or so. In addition, consult the expert podiatrists at Montgomery Foot Care Specialists, Dr. Heidi M. Christie and Dr. Chanda L. Day-Houts, who are happy to examine your shoes for any significant wear patterns or treat any deformities your shoes may have already caused.
Shoe size and the diabetic
Diabetics should take special care to wear the perfect size shoe. Montgomery Foot Care Specialists has one of the best diabetic shoe programs in the tri-county area, assuring you of a comfortable, custom fit.
When it comes to advice about shoe size or any problems you have with your feet, one thing hasn’t changed in all the years we’ve been in business: we promise to treat you with care and understanding. Visit us online or give us a call at (334) 396-3668.