Your Age Has Changed - Has Your Foot Size?

How many miles do you think the average American walks in his or her lifetime?

10,000

50,000

100,000

If you guessed 100,000, you're right! When you multiply those 100,000 miles by an average of 2,000 steps per mile, you know that the average American will take over 2 million steps in his or her lifetime, every one causing stress on the bones, muscles, and ligaments of the feet. The best way to mitigate the damage that stress can create is by wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes.

Numerous anatomical changes are typical in the feet as we age, including bunions, hammertoes, and fallen arches. These changes can contribute to a change in foot size. In addition to age and illness, there are several reasons for foot size change. Obesity is especially notable. In addition to contributing to a variety of chronic illnesses including high blood pressure and diabetes, excess weight stresses the joints and exacerbates the natural age-related flattening and widening of the feet.

While some people will experience slight growth or no growth at all as they get older, others will see as much as a half size increase every 10 years after they turn 40. Think about it: you probably can't fit into your senior prom dress or tuxedo anymore, so why expect to wear the same shoes you wore back then?

Be sure to have your feet professionally measured every year. Ensuring that your shoes are the right size can be especially important for patients who are prone to ingrown toenails, heel pain, or corns, or those who are living with diabetes or arthritis.

Have your favorite shoes become less comfortable than they used to be? Are they making it harder to stand or walk comfortably?

Here at The Texas Foot Specialists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum provide expert and specialized care to address all of your foot and ankle needs. From conservative to advanced surgical treatments, you can always count on us for quality and compassionate care. Contact us online to make an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Sugar Land, Pasadena or Houston.