Is it Bad to Have Wide Feet?
If you always shop for the wide version of heels and loafers, or if you feel like your feet are constantly expanding against your socks, you know the struggles of having wide feet. But is shoe shopping where the inconvenience stops? Or are there actual foot issues and podiatric risks associated with having wider feet? We at My Chicago Foot Expert weigh in on this complicated structural topic below.
The Structural Risks of Narrow Footwear
The most common issue for people with wide feet is the mismatch between their foot shape and standard shoe manufacturing. Most mass-market shoes are built on a medium mold, so when you force a wide foot into a narrow shoe, you are putting your bones and soft tissues into a pressurized chamber.
This can lead to issues like…
The Development of Bunions and Hammertoes
When your toes are constantly squeezed together, the big toe is often pushed inward toward the second toe, and, over time, this pressure causes the joint at the base of the big toe to protrude and cause a painful bunion.
Similarly, your smaller toes may begin to curl or buckle because they have nowhere else to go, which can lead to permanent hammertoes. If you notice your toes losing their ability to lie flat, your shoes might be to blame.
Pinched Nerves and Neuromas
Wide feet are also more susceptible to Morton’s neuroma, which is a nerve inflammation that sometimes happens when your toes are squeezed tight. If you ever feel pain in the balls of your feet, it is a sign that your foot width is causing nerve compression.
Dealing With Chronically Swollen Feet
For many people, wide feet and chronic swelling go hand in hand. Swelling can happen for various reasons, including poor circulation, standing for long periods, or even your diet.
However, when your feet are already wide, even a small amount of fluid retention can make your shoes feel like they are two sizes too small.
To counteract this, we recommend shoes with extra depth and adjustable closures, like laces or Velcro, that can accommodate your foot as it changes size throughout the day.
How to Care for Your Wide Feet
Start by getting your feet professionally measured…. A lot of folks are surprised to find they have been wearing the wrong size for years. Look for brands that specifically offer wide and extra-wide widths, like GH Bass for men’s dress shoes.
If your foot width is making it hard to walk or causing visible deformities, a visit to a podiatrist can help. We can provide custom orthotics to properly align your bones and suggest the best footwear for your specific shape.
For any questions about foot health and wellness, reach out to the tenured staff at My Chicago Foot Expert by calling (773) 561-8100 or by clicking here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our new, comfortable Chicago office, located at 5015 N Paulina Street, Suite #217.
