Getting the Skinny on Wide Feet

Our bodies come in different shapes and sizes and so do our feet. Just as some people are shorter or heavier than others, some feet are wider than others. Women are more likely to have wide feet than men, but there are many reasons that people have wide feet:

Heredity - Some people are just born with wide feet. You're more likely to have wide feet if other family members do.

Standing - People who spend long periods of time on their feet at work often find that their feet get wider over time. This happens to pharmacists, teachers, and others.

Aging - As age loosens ligaments and muscles, feet get wider.

Weight - If you are overweight or obese, there is added pressure on your ligaments and muscles. They can flatten and cause your feet to widen.

Pregnancy - The extra weight gained rapidly by pregnant women puts a strain on the feet, causing them to spread. Some women's feet return to their original size after the baby is born, but many do not.

 Bunions - Some patients with bunions require wider shoes to accommodate the changed shape of their foot.

When shopping for shoes, the average foot width is called size B. C and D are wide; D and up are extra wide. Finding comfortable shoes for wide feet can be difficult. If you have wide feet, there are some things that you can do to ensure greater comfort when buying and wearing shoes:

Have your feet professionally measured once a year to be sure you're buying shoes in the right size.

For everyday wear, choose comfortable shoes with a wide, roomy toe box.

Choose shoes with laces or straps, which offer more accommodation for your feet than loafers or slip-on shoes will.

Talk to your podiatrist about custom orthotics for improved cushioning and support.

If you are concerned about living with wide feet, or if you have any other issues related to the health and well-being of your feet, ankles, or lower legs, a visit to the podiatrist is in order.

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.