Foot Health: Common Issues and Solutions for Asian Feet

Foot problems consultation?

Hello, Director! I apologize for the interruption, but I have a few questions regarding my feet that I would like to ask you.
Thank you for your assistance!
1.
I have seen many rehabilitation therapists online mention that Asian foot shapes differ from those of Europeans and Americans, so it is important to pay attention to the width of shoes.
I have wider feet, but in the past, I didn't know how to choose shoes.
Whenever I felt tightness, I would just ask the store to get a size larger, and my foot length is 25.4 cm with a width of 10.5 cm (measured on paper without socks).
As a result, I kept buying larger shoes and have now reached size 28.5 (28.5 cm), which makes me have to tighten them, but my feet still slide back and forth.
Recently, I learned about the importance of proper shoe fit and switched to wider shoes, specifically size 27 in 4E width.
The toe box feels very comfortable, and I have left a one-finger distance at the front, but I might not be used to the width and feel like I lack the previous snugness.
I am unsure if it is too wide; when I press the sides with my hand, there is only a 0.2 cm gap.
I would like to know what kind of damage could occur if the shoes are too wide (I only found information online about shoes being too long or too tight causing harm).
2.
I have read online that rehabilitation doctors recommend toe socks for foot health and to help prevent hallux valgus.
Is this true? Currently, my big toes on both feet have an angle of less than 5 degrees, but I want to take preventive measures by changing my footwear.
3.
Sometimes when I stand, I notice that my big toes do not seem to be level with the ground; they appear to be slightly higher on one side than the other.
Is this normal?
4.
My left foot's little toe is tilted outward horizontally, but it does not bend inward or outward at the joint (I have checked online images).
When standing, it appears that the left side is lower and tilting outward at about a 25-degree angle.
The left toenail is only 0.2 cm from touching the ground, while the flesh on the right side of the little toe is pushed up higher off the ground.
From above, the toenail and flesh create a diagonal line from left to right.
My right little toe also has a slight tilt, but it is minimal.
I would like to know what kind of foot condition this might be.
Thank you, Director, and I apologize for the detailed questions.
I appreciate your help!

Yang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/11

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation

Shoes that are too wide can affect the fit, causing the foot to slide and rub inside the shoe, which can lead to foot injuries.
Toe socks can separate the five toes, but they lack sufficient support and are very limited in preventing hallux valgus.
If hallux valgus is present, appropriate orthotic devices should be used for effective results.
This is a consultation platform and cannot provide diagnoses; please visit an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist for a proper assessment and accurate diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2024/01/11

More Info

Understanding foot health is crucial, especially for individuals who may experience discomfort or pain due to improper footwear or foot structure. Your concerns highlight several common issues faced by many, particularly in the context of Asian foot anatomy, which can differ significantly from Western foot shapes. Let's address your questions systematically.

1. Choosing the Right Shoe Width: It's well-documented that Asian feet often require different shoe dimensions compared to Western feet. The width of the shoe is particularly important for comfort and preventing foot problems. Wearing shoes that are too wide can lead to instability, causing your foot to slide around inside the shoe. This can result in blisters, calluses, and even conditions like plantar fasciitis due to improper support. If you find that your new shoes feel a bit too wide, it may take some time to adjust. However, if you have only 0.2 cm of space when pressing the sides, this is generally acceptable. The key is to ensure that your toes have enough room to move without being cramped, while also providing adequate support to prevent excessive movement within the shoe.

2. Five-Toe Socks and Hallux Valgus Prevention: The use of five-toe socks can indeed help in promoting better toe alignment and may provide some benefits in preventing conditions like hallux valgus (bunion). However, while they can help with toe separation, they do not provide the structural support necessary to correct existing deformities. If you are currently experiencing only a slight deviation (less than 5 degrees) in your big toes, it’s a good idea to take preventive measures, but you should also consider consulting a podiatrist for personalized advice.

3. Toe Alignment and Height Differences: It is not uncommon for individuals to notice slight variations in toe alignment when standing. Factors such as muscle imbalances, foot structure, and even the type of footwear can contribute to this perception. If the difference is minimal and does not cause pain or discomfort, it may be considered normal. However, if you experience pain or significant discomfort, it would be wise to seek a professional evaluation.

4. Foot Deformities and Their Implications: The outward tilt of your left little toe, as you described, may indicate a condition known as "tailor's bunion" or bunionette, which is a bony prominence on the outside of the foot. This can occur due to genetic predisposition, improper footwear, or foot mechanics. The asymmetry you observe, with one toe appearing higher than the other, could be a result of muscle imbalances or structural differences in your feet. It’s essential to monitor these conditions, as they can lead to further complications if left unaddressed.

In summary, proper footwear is critical for maintaining foot health, especially for individuals with wider feet or specific deformities. It’s advisable to consult with a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist who can provide a thorough assessment of your foot structure and recommend appropriate footwear or orthotics tailored to your needs. Additionally, incorporating exercises to strengthen the foot muscles and improve flexibility can be beneficial in managing and preventing foot-related issues. Always prioritize comfort and support in your footwear choices, and don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance when needed.

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