Why Autumn Can Be Tough On A Woman’s Feet

Fall is officially here, and although the change of season usually brings beautiful views with changing leaves, it can also be a tough time on our feet, particularly for women. Because we’ve just kicked off the fall season, Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC are sharing some tips for keeping your feet healthy and happy this autumn. 

As the temperatures begin to drop, we often switch out our open-toed shoes for more fashionable and protective closed-toe options. Pointed, closed-toe shoes and high heels can leave our legs and feet vulnerable to numerous painful conditions, including: 

• Bunions;

• Sprained ankles;

• Muscle weakness and pain;

• Blisters;

• Hammertoes;

• Calluses and corns;

• Achilles tendon injuries.

Preventing Foot Pain This Fall

So how can we prevent these injuries during the fall?

1. Choose wider, closed-toe shoes. As the temperatures drop, you’re going to want to wear a closed-toe shoe that offers your foot more protection. But if the front of the shoe is pointed or narrow, you may be causing harm each time you wear them. When shopping, try the shoes on to ensure there is plenty of room in the toe.

2. Wear pointy toe shoes in moderation. We’re not suggesting that you can’t ever wear those cute heels with the pointy toe, but you should certainly wear them in moderation.

3. Pick the proper shoe for the activity. If you have a desk job, you’ll probably be fine wearing heels at work once in a while, but if you are on your feet all day, choose a pair of shoes that support and pamper your feet.

4. Stop if pain sets in. If your feet start to feel uncomfortable in your shoes, or you’re experiencing pain, remove the footwear as soon as possible. Keep a comfortable pair of shoes at work or in your car in case you need to make a switch in the middle of the day.

5. Buy some padding. If you are intent on wearing a pair of heels for the night, consider investing in some padded or custom orthotics that can help take the pressure off your feet when wearing heels. 

If you develop a foot issue this fall, don’t hesitate to contact the offices of Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC to schedule an appointment.

We serve both New Haven County and Fairfield County areas. Schedule an appointment by calling our Waterbury office at (203) 755-0489 or our Newtown location at (203) 270-6724.