Caring for Your Feet: Comfortable Shoes and Daily Checks

Your feet carry you through every walk, errand and visit with family, yet they are easy to overlook until something hurts. With age, feet often get wider or longer, the natural padding on the soles thins and circulation can change. A little regular attention helps keep them comfortable.

Choosing comfortable shoes

Get measured. Foot size can change over the years. Have both feet measured while standing, and shop later in the day when feet tend to be slightly larger.

Look for a good fit. There should be about a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. The heel should not slip, and the widest part of your foot should fit comfortably.

Choose supportive features:

• A firm heel counter (the back of the shoe)
• Cushioning without being overly soft or wobbly
• Non-slip soles with good tread
• A low, wide heel
• Adjustable closures such as laces or hook-and-loop straps

Avoid shoes with high heels, pointed toes, slippery soles or loose backs, including worn-out slippers. Indoor shoes with backs and grippy soles are safer than open-back slippers.

Shop with your socks. Wear the type of socks you usually wear when trying on shoes.

A simple daily foot check

Take a minute each day, perhaps after bathing, to look at your feet. Use a mirror or ask someone to help if bending is difficult. Look for:

• Cuts, blisters or sores
• Redness, swelling or warmth
• Calluses or corns
• Changes in skin color
• Ingrown or discolored toenails
• Cracks between the toes or on the heels

If you have diabetes or poor circulation, daily checks are especially important because sensation may be reduced and small injuries can become serious.

Everyday care

• Wash feet daily in lukewarm water and dry them well, especially between the toes.
• Moisturize the tops and bottoms of your feet, but not between the toes, where extra moisture can lead to problems.
• Trim toenails straight across and smooth sharp edges with a file. If you cannot reach your feet easily or have thick nails, a podiatrist can help.
• Wear clean, dry socks that fit without tight elastic bands.
• Do not walk barefoot, even at home, to avoid injuries.
• Avoid hot water bottles or heating pads on your feet if you have reduced sensation.
• Move your feet. Ankle circles and toe wiggles while seated encourage circulation.

When to see a professional

See your doctor or a podiatrist (a foot specialist) if you notice:

• A sore, cut or blister that does not heal within a few days
• Numbness, tingling or burning
• Pain that affects how you walk
• Signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, swelling or drainage
• Changes in the shape of your foot
• Ingrown toenails

Medicare Part B covers some podiatry services, such as foot exams and care for people with diabetes-related nerve damage. Routine foot care, like trimming nails, is generally not covered unless certain medical conditions apply. Check with your plan for details.

Feet and falls

Foot pain, numbness and poorly fitting shoes can all affect balance. Taking care of your feet is a practical part of staying steady and active.