Have you ever gone to a shoe store where the salesperson asks to examine your current shoes? If so, you’ve hit upon someone who truly cares about selling you just the right shoe. This caring salesperson is probably looking for unusual wear patterns in your current shoes.
What wear patterns say
Wear patterns can tell you a lot about your feet and about the way you’re walking. Let’s take a look at some of the ways your shoes wear down, and what they might mean:
- Your shoes are worn down only on the insides: you’re probably over-pronating, meaning that when you walk, your feet roll in towards the arches.
- Your shoes show most of their wear on the outsides: that’s evidence that you’re rolling your foot outwards (supination).
- The wear pattern on one shoe is different from the wear pattern on the other: for example, if the heels on your shoes have worn down unevenly, you probably have a problem with your foot structure. Your foot may be twisting as you walk. Or, you may be wearing an inappropriate size.
- If your shoes are worn pretty evenly over the bottom, they’re telling you that this style, brand, and/or size is working for you. Stick with this kind of shoe as long as you aren’t having any pain or other symptoms of injury.
Other signs of foot trouble
Examining wear patterns on your shoes is a great way to get clues about your foot health. If you – or that conscientious salesperson – spot anything unusual, call Montgomery Foot Care Specialists at (334) 396-3668. Our two expert podiatrists, Dr. Chanda L. Day-Houts and Dr. Heidi M. Christie, have many ways to correct the problems that your shoes are eager for you to notice. Call us today or make an appointment online.
Your shoes can exhibit other symptoms of foot problems. For example, if you notice that your shoes bulge out in certain places, take a closer look at them. Do they bulge out at the base of the big toe? Check out your foot and see if you have a bunion that needs attention. Shoes that pop up around the toes may point to a problem with hammertoes.