Shopping can be a pain in the foot

Whether you’re shopping for athletic shoes this season, or just shopping, treat your feet by selecting the right footwear, says Petronilo Jr. Cruz, certified Master Fit Technician. According to Cruz, an average day of walking brings a force equal to several hundred tons on an individual’s feet.

Shopping marathons and back-to-back parties during the holiday season will more than likely double that force leading to foot, leg, and back pain.

Because we use them constantly, feet are one of the most frequently injured parts of our bodies. Recent medical studies indicate that nearly eighty percent of Americans experience regular foot pain. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, the average person takes approximately 9,000 steps every day. When you consider that the amount of walking a person does more than doubles during the holidays, it is not surprising that a seat on a mall bench is hard to come by during the holidays.

Additionally, nine out of ten people don’t wear properly fitting shoes. Properly fitted athletic shoes can help to alleviate pain associated with physical activity. Sizes vary among shoe brands and styles, and feet continue to elongate and spread into adulthood, so feet should be properly measured for each shoe purchase. In addition to size, consumers should seek advice on appropriate styles. Many athletic shoes may look similar, but different shoes are designed for different foot types. With the wrong shoes, you risk injury.

Consumers should bring an old pair of shoes with them when purchasing new shoes. (This is especially helpful when giving shoes as gifts.) By examining how the older shoes are worn, a good fit technician can determine the proper size, style, and level of support necessary.

For more information regarding finding the right athletic footwear for you and your loved ones this holiday season, visit one of your The Athlete’s Foot stores today. Call The Athlete’s Foot at 234-1236 or visit them in the Joeten Shopping Center, Susupe or at the Hafa Adai Shopping Center, Garapan. You can also reach them through their newly launched website at www.athletesfootsaipan.com. The Athlete’s Foot is the definite experts in athletic footwear. (PR)