Date:02/05/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/02/stories/2006050202490200.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

Check the footwear for comfort before making your decision

Special Correspondent

Blisters, corns, calluses and chronic pain in ankles are some of the common problems

Bangalore: Compared to men more women have problems with their feet. While some may be serious, many can be treated with over-the-counter ointment and liniment and with some basic care.

"Women's feet are no less than men's. But they are more often squeezed into footwear with very high heels, narrow pointed toes or tight straps, damaging the ligaments and bones of the toes and ankles," says beautician and podiatrist Monisha Kulkarni.

Surgeries

She has found that more than 80 per cent of surgeries related to the feet are done on women.

The problem is that women's footwear has for too long been designed for looks than for comfort, and fashion always prevails. But within the boundaries of style and elegance, women can take care of their feet and avoid serious or permanent damage. Blisters, corns, calluses and chronic pain in the ankles are some of the more common foot-related problems.

Elegant ones

The good news is that elegantly designed footwear for women, combining looks and comfort, are now available in most stores. These come with padded or cushioned insoles, often perforated for air to circulate and keep the feet cool.

"Platform heels are relatively easier on the feet than stiletto heels or heels that are separate from the rest of the sole. There are also good walking shoes now with thick soles and heelsthat are safe for fitness walking for people who must look taller," says Ms Monisha.

Blisters

Feet blisters are best treated with ointment or cream containing aloe vera and vitamin E. Regular application of such cream may also prevent corns. While medicated "corn pads" are available in shops, they may not be safe for those with diabetes or delicate feet.

Certain herbal creams containing "tea tree oil" are considered good for dry feet, to avoid unsightly cracks on the heels.

Using a pumice stone a few times a week gets rid of dead skin and calluses.

Podiatrists suggest and shoe shop salespersons endorse that shopping for new footwear is best later in the day when the feet have swollen to their maximum.

It is better to be measured for the right feet, between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. or so.

If buying shoes rather than sandals, try them on with the kind of socks you normally wear; this especially holds for walking or exercising shoes.

Size

Do not go by size number as real size may vary with style and between different brands.

Unless you are too short it may be safer to avoid heels more than two inches high unless they are platform heeled. Leather or perforated synthetics make for the best kind of footwear. At least the uppers and straps, if any, should be of good leather, soft inside where it touches your skin.