Don’t Forget those Feet

About fifteen years ago, when I was working full-time as a congregational rabbi, I faced a dilemma that I needed to resolve. I was the associate rabbi but would in a few years become the senior rabbi; that is not the problem. The issue was that I knew that being “in charge” would require me to do a lot more standing–especially when conducting services, and even more so at the important high holidays. How would I be able to do it when after only an hour or so my feet would start aching? Some days, after work I would take off my shoes and my feet would be throbbing.

I decided to visit a podiatrist (a medical doctor that specializes in the feet and lower legs) to see if there was something wrong. It turns out that I was pronating when I walked or stood and this was causing the discomfort; the good news was that it could be corrected with custom orthotics. It took about a week or so to get used to them, but afterwards I could feel a huge difference. My feet did not ache and I could stand, walk, and even run much longer than before.

Over the years, I have had the orthotics adjusted and even gotten new ones. I have ones that I use in my “regular” shoes and others that I put in my athletic footwear. The results are remarkable.

Of course, not everyone needs orthotics or the special care that a podiatrist can provide. Even so, at any age it is important to have proper footwear, in particular when engaging in athletic activities. Some of you may recall a related blog from a few years ago. It is noteworthy as well that, like tires on a car, athletic shoes have will wear out and need to be replaced. Having the proper footwear will not only protect the feet (from falling dumbbells!) but also provide proper support and alignment for the rest of the body.

How do you know if you have the right shoes? I recommend to all my clients that they go to a store that specializes in athletic footwear and has staff that is well-trained. I love DSW, but that is not the place to get properly fitted. There are some chains, but most metro areas have a locally-owned store that can provide shoes especially for cross-training, tennis, running, etc. There are others as well that are geared toward older adults and their unique requirements. Local stores have a vested interested in treating you right to keep you as a customer and rely on your referrals.

Most of us do not really give a great deal of thought to our feet….that is, until there is a problem. When they are unable to do their job the impact is huge. Do not wait until there is an issue; have the proper shoes and see a medical professional when something is not right. God gave us two feet; “Oh, the places you will go” with them–but only if you care for them!