3 Signs that It’s Time to Replace Your Walking Shoes
At Pasco Hernando Foot & Ankle, we are great proponents of walking as an excellent fitness activity that can help keep your feet and the rest of your body healthy. Good walking shoes are the only real equipment you need. How do you know when it’s time to replace those shoes? If you regularly walk, your shoes should last about 500 miles or 6 months. But there are also other signs that you’re due for new shoes. Here are 3 things to check.
Visual signs of wear—cracks in the soles of your shoes or rips in the uppers are obvious indicators you should replace your shoes. Ignoring these signs could result in a trip or fall injury. In addition, check for stretched-out heel counters and worn-down soles.
Do the press test—even if you have walking shoes that look okay, they may be deteriorating internally. Press your thumb firmly along the insole of the shoe. The cushioning is still good if it easily compresses and you see lots of lines and wrinkles. If the shoe's interior feels dry and hard and you don't see many wrinkles when you press on the shoe, it's worn down and no longer providing your foot with the protection and comfort it needs.
New aches and pains—another sure sign you should replace your walking shoes is if you notice pain and discomfort where previously there was none. Blisters suddenly forming in new places indicate friction between your foot and the shoe. Pain or stiffness in your feet, ankles, knees, hip, or back may also be your body's way of telling you the shoes are no longer functioning correctly or supporting your foot and arch as they should.
Of course, foot or ankle pain may signal an injury or development of the podiatric condition. If replacing your walking shoes fails in eliminating uncomfortable foot symptoms, contact us for an appointment at our Hudson office by calling 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799. Our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, will examine your feet and ankles and observe your gait. Be sure to bring your old walking shoes with you, as they may give the foot doctor additional clues to your podiatric disorder.