Shoe shopping can be a nightmare! The wrong shoes can cause or aggravate foot ailments. The right shoes can often prevent - but cannot correct - problems. So wearing the right shoes is vital to foot health. Follow these simple suggestions when picking out shoes.

If problems persist, visit your podaitrist. They will be happy to help you. Construction: Leather is best because is breathes like skin and molds to your foot. Cheaper canvas is just fine for fast-growing children.

Breathable mesh is also good especially in athletic shoes. Soles should be strong and flexible with a good gripping surface. Insoles should be cushioned to absorb the jolts of walking on hard surfaces, but have enough arch support for your foot type. Some people require custom insoles for good foot health and comfort. Arch supports distribute weight over a wider area.

Rigid shanks also give added support. High heels can be fun and look good, but they should not be worn too long at a stretch or for much walking. Besides cramping the toes, they change the biomechanics of your whole body making back pain, foot strains and aggravation of foot deformities more likely. Thongs and ballerina flats with no support are just as bad and can cause and aggravate many foot ailments.

Fit: Only you can tell if shoes fit. DO NOT BUY uncomfortable shoes, even if they are pretty! Many podiatrists and certified pedorthists have a digital fitting system that can scan your feet and suggest the proper shoe size. This can help! Don't be surprised if you are wearing two shoe sizes too small.

Most peolpe wear their shoes at least a half a size too small! This includes men as well as women. Don't plan on shoes stretching with wear. Many times shoes can be stretched if you find that the ones you own are too tight. Better advice would be to replace them.

Because feet spread with age, have your feet measured every time you buy shoes. Especially if you have had recent weight gain or pregnancy. Always measure both feet: they are often slightly different sizes. Always buy shoes for the BIGGEST foot. Go shoe shopping late in the afternoon. Feet swell to their largest later in the day.

If you must buy shoes in the morning, buy them slightly larger. Size depends on shoe make and style, too. Don't insist you always wear one size if the next feels better. Remember the size is merely a suggested number and changes with brand and style. Wiggle your toes to make wure you have enough room in the toe box.

You should have one thumb width from the end of your longest toe to the end of the shoe. Remember this may be your second toe not your great toe. Your forefoot should NOT be wider than your shoe. Look to see if your foot is spreading out over the sole of the shoes at the sides.

Unfortunately, most shoes today are narrower in the front than the foot is. You can check this by standing on paper and tracing around your bare foot. Compare the outline of your foot with the sole of your shoe. If your shoe appears too narrow, you may be inviting foot problems. If the shoes are comfortable, buy them! You are the best judge of your fit.

The heel should fit snugly and the instep should not gape open. And finally, if the shoe doesn't fit - don't buy it!.

Dr Marybeth Crane is a board certified podiatric foot and ankle surgeon specializing in sports medicine. Your feet should last a lifetime! For more foot health tips, a copy of her FREE BOOK and doctor-approved foot care products, visit her website or read her blog. Your body will thank you for it!