Why are Properly Fitting Running and Walking shoes so important?

By Jeff Schmelz

If they cover my feet and don’t hurt, they must be good right? What’s the big deal? Feet are one of the most complex parts of the body and the anchor part of our kinetic chain. Issues with your feet can lead to problems with your ankles, knees, hips and back as well as balance and coordination. Shoes are about more than fashion or a lack of pain. Shoes are a very important part of maintaining foot health and overall wellbeing. Finding the right running or walking shoes is very important and requires a shoe fitting.

The first question we ask our clients is if they are experiencing any pain or issues with their feet. The reason we ask this is that 60% of the population experiences pain or stiffness in their feet on a regular basis. The majority also experience concurrent issues with one or more other joints as a direct result of issues with their feet. Common conditions such as bunions, corns, hammer toes and neuroma are often made worse by ill-fitting and or unsupportive shoes. With the aging population here in Central Florida we often find that these issues combined with improper shoes adversely affect balance and posture which in turn makes staying active difficult.

With detailed assessment and proper footwear, we can often reduce pain, improve circulation, improve posture, and balance and improve your ability to move comfortably and efficiently. At Dash Sports, we offer complimentary custom shoe fittings everyday. We watch you walk in your current shoes and see if you pronate. We also measure your feet! Did you know that your feet may shrink with age? Schedule a complimentary custom shoe fitting online or just stop in!

Want to know more running shoe specifics? Check out this article in Runner’s World: https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a19663621/best-running-shoes/ . Dash Sports carries a wide selection of Runner’s World’s top shoe choices. Stop in today and try on a pair!