The human foot has 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 tendons, muscles, and ligaments. They are the foundation that supports our entire body. With such a complex structure, a lot can go wrong. While some foot problems are inherited, many occur because of years of wear and tear. Keeping your feet healthy is an important part of your overall health.

Some simple steps to keep your feet healthy . . .

    · Examine your feet regularly 
    · Wear comfortable shoes that fit 
    · Wash your feet daily with soap and lukewarm water

Proper footwear is important to keep your feet healthy. You should make sure that you're wearing the right size. Many people don't have their feet measured when they buy new shoes. Your shoe size can change as you get older because the feet can spread and lengthen. Your feet should be measured and shoes should be fit by someone trained to fit shoes to ensure your shoes fit correctly.

As stylish as they may be, high heels and shoes that squeeze the feet are linked to a host of foot problems. Painful bunions, which are misaligned toe joints, are much more common in women than men. Poorly fitting shoes don't cause bunions, but can aggravate existing ones. Some people with bunions can eliminate pain with conservative approaches such as wearing bunion pads, avoiding high heels, and buying comfortable shoes that are shaped like their feet and that provide more toe room. Other common problems from tight shoes include nerve growths called neuromas, corns, calluses, blisters, and hammertoes, a condition in which the toes are bent like a claw. Proper fitting shoes can help prevent many of these conditions.

Many foot conditions are relieved with orthotic devices. Orthotic devices are intended to make the feet more comfortable, minimize stress on the foot, or improve an abnormal or irregular walking pattern. An orthotic device could be a conservative approach to a foot problem, a preventive measure to avoid problems, or a useful support after foot surgery.

Please see our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page for answers to some general questions about foot health and footwear. We have also provided a How to Start page to help you get started in finding the proper footwear. We have recommendations of footwear for some common foot conditions and a page containing links to many helpful websites. At p.w. minor we care about your feet and want to help you keep them healthy so you can live the lifestyle you want.