The Secret Weapon Against Foot Pain
At Foot Solutions, we often talk about our ‘state of the art’ hi tech foot scanning equipment which allows us to do things like; create 3 dimensional profiles of each foot, identify pressure key points and in turn produce custom arch supports designed to suit the contours of individual feet.
But, as we always say, to be effective, custom arch supports must be worn with well-constructed and properly fitting footwear.
When it comes to identifying shoe size and choosing suitable footwear for customers, we rely on a more traditional but still highly important piece of equipment that was invented nearly 100 years ago.
Meet the Brannock Foot Measuring Device.
It is important to understand that foot sizes and shoe sizes are not the same. Many shoe retailers just measure the length of the foot from heel to toe. This often results in people purchasing uncomfortable footwear with restricted width, little toe room and inappropriate arch support. Badly fitting footwear can lead to pain and injury and negatively affect posture and balance.
The Brannock Device identifies the correct shoe size by accurately recording three crucial measurements of each foot – length, width and arch.
At Foot Solutions, we take these measurements in both sitting and standing positions to allow for any ‘flattening’ during weight bearing.
Why Is Accurate Foot Measurement So Important?
Accurate foot measurement is important in both the short and long term.
Immediate benefits of properly fitted footwear include pain reduction, increased comfort, better support and stability which all help provide improved mobility.
In the longer term, consistent wearing of well-fitting footwear helps in 4 main ways:
- Healthy ongoing foot development – this is particularly important for children
- Prevention of painful conditions – corns and blisters can be easily avoided by eliminating unnecessary friction between feet and shoes
- Reducing the risk of foot deformities – consistently wearing properly fitted footwear significantly reduces the risk of conditions like bunions and hammer toes
- Injury prevention – well-fitting shoes improve balance, stability and ground surface contact. This in turn reduces the risk of falls which can lead to serious injury
Once Foot Solutions consultants have accurate measurements, they can recommend footwear which combine the correct balance of a comfortable snug fit with sufficient room for toe movement.
So how do you know if your shoes are the wrong size? Key indicators include:
- Discomfort or pain
- Blisters
- Calluses
- Bad posture
- Reduced mobility
If any of the above apply to you, contact the store today to arrange accurate measurement of both feet. Our consultants will be happy help.