The American Chiropractic Association has some simple, but great advice for the next time you find a new pair of athletic shoes. There is no best or worst pair for everyone – you need to find the shoes that fit your feet perfectly for the activity you will be participating in.

• Size matters: your feet change in size throughout the day and throughout your life. Get measured every time, and consider measuring them after a workout or long day, when your feet are at their largest.
• Activity matters: Running shoes will be designed to minimize impact; tennis shoes are designed to improve side-to-side mobility, etc.
• The shape your individual foot matters: Are you normal, flat footed or high-arched? I encourage you to click the link below and read more on how to better understand your feet, and the types of shoes that will best support your individual structure.

One thing I know I’m guilty of is not replacing my shoes often enough. I feel like some pairs never get truly comfortable until I have had them for a year, and I know I hate wasting money on yet another pair of shoes that never fits quite right. It is worth taking the time to ensure your athletic shoes fit correctly and give you the support you need when you need it most – during activity! And this means not just finding the right shoes, but replacing them often enough to avoid injuries like shin splints, heel spurs, and plantar fasciitis, which can be caused or exacerbated by your shoes having lost their shock absorption (sometimes before they show obvious signs of wear-and-tear).

Dr. Michael Herb, our clinical director and sports medicine specialist, has been an athlete his whole life, as have most of us at Absolute Wellness Center. Exercise makes us happy, even if it pushes us to new places. It should be challenging, but not painful. If you ever have questions on how to keep pushing safely and effectively (e.g., proper form or equipment), just ask!

Absolute Wellness Center offers sports medicine, chiropractic medicine, naturopathic medicine, physical rehabilitation, acupuncture, and massage therapy in Eugene, OR. To learn more, give us a call at 541-484-5777.