You need to go shoe shopping!

What emotions do you relate with that statement? Fun, tiring, stressful, exciting, time-consuming, expensive?

At HealthyFeetStore.com, we know that finding the perfect pair of shoes isn’t easy. That’s why we have knowledgeable customer service representatives available to talk to you on the phone and aid you in your shoe search.

We’ve noticed that the majority of shoe shoppers don’t know how to correctly pick out the best pair of shoes for themselves. Shoe shoppers are usually under-educated in proper shoe fitting - at no fault of their own - and that can jeopardize their foot health. Below is a detailed list (in no particular order) of information you should be aware of while you’re trying on shoes to make sure you get the best shoe for your buck.
 

• Ideally, you should have your feet measured at least once a year or if you have a significant weight gain or loss.
• Feet should be measured standing on a Brannock device and always have both feet measured. A really skilled practitioner will measure both feet standing and sitting.
• Even though you may measure a size 8, it does not mean that you will wear a size 8 in every shoe from every company. Each shoe company develops their own lasts (the leather upper built onto the sole that changes how the shoe fits.)
• Always fit the pair of shoes to your larger foot. For most people, their larger foot is the opposite from the hand they write with.
• Don’t buy shoes that are too tight. If you’re at the point where you’re praying they will stretch to be comfortable, they probably won’t. It’s true that soft leather and suede give slightly, molding to your foot, but they will not dramatically increase in width or length. There’s a difference between a “snug” comfortable fit and a “tight” uncomfortable fit. A few laps around a carpet should help you decide how you feel.
• If you have a wide foot, it is recommended that you wear a wide shoe and not just purchase your shoe a size larger and hope it fits. You will be so much happier in a shoe that fits correctly.
• Stand up with your shoes on. Walk around a bit. You should be able to wiggle your toes in the front of the shoe. For most footwear, your toes will be able to touch the top of the shoe, but there should be 3/8″ to 1/2″ of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
• The best time to try on shoes is usually at the end of the day, when your feet are most swollen to make sure the footwear will fit your feet when they’re at their widest.
• Make sure you’re wearing the socks you’d wear with that particular shoe.
• Good shoes rarely have decent arch supports as they expect that you have a custom orthotic. The inlays in most shoes are comfort inlays- essentially just foam- unless they are in athletic shoes.
• Get athletic shoes ½ to a full size larger than you would typically buy, because when you run, your foot moves forward about 1/3 of an inch, which is a ½ size in length.
• Dress shoes will not fit like athletic shoes, so don’t expect to buy both dress shoes and athletic shoes in the same sizes
• In general, slippers should be sized to be a bit looser, unless you need tighter and more stable slippers for a certain condition.
• Shoes that are too short may cause black toenails and blisters.
• Shoes that are too long can make you trip.
• Shoes that are too narrow may cause callouses and corns.
• Shoes that are too wide can create blisters.
• Orthopedically, shoes with heels over 2 inches put an unrealistic load on the forefoot.
• Velcro is great for arthritic people with limited movement or back stiffness.
• Our specialist advocates wearing shoes with laces instead of Velcro, unless there are upper body limitations. Lacing offers more control and a more secure fit, compared to Velcro closures.
• Leather uppers are preferred as they are breathable as well as protective.
• Even though there are about 20 separate parts to an average shoe, they are mass-produced. It’s up to you to customize the fit - a heel pad, arch support, etc.
• Make sure the shoe fits the intention and the season.
• Know the life span of the shoe - in general, if you wear a shoe everyday, it will last around 9-12 months. The more shoes you have and wear in rotation, the longer the life spans.
• Use a shoe horn to prolong the heel counter. Once that gets trampled down, the shoe no longer has the stability and/or correction that it once had.
• Protect and clean the leathers to enhance their lifespan.
• The more eyelets the shoe has, the more adjustability and control.
• Goat, calf, cow, deer and kangaroo are all highly prized uppers. Cow is the strongest, kangaroo the softest but least durable.
• If you have a foot condition: When you get new shoes or orthotics that you are  not used to wearing, you should wear them at one or two hour intervals for the first couple of days. Increase the amount of hours you wear them by one or two each day to get adjusted to the strapping or different lacings.  This will decrease the chances of creating blisters or corns, assuming you bought the right size shoe.

A study published in PM&R: The Journal of Injury, Function and Rehabilitation showed that running on a treadmill in the Brooks Adrenaline shoes increases stress on the knee joints up to 38% compared to those who ran barefoot on a treadmill.

Why do you think the study found that?

It would be dependant on the subjects. Who were the subjects? Those kinds of studies have so many variables. What type of treadmill? What pace? Was it inclined? Did the subjects have pre-existing conditions? What were their foot types? Did they ever have surgery on their feet, knees, back? You can pick apart that study so fast. How many subjects were there? It’s a meaningless study in my mind. Anybody who has any interest in research or does research knows you can pick apart those studies in the first paragraph. The downside is that the average person doesn’t know that.

The whole basis behind barefoot running in my opinion – I don’t advocate it or anything - from what I know about it, there were reasonable studies that did show an increase of efficiency of the lower extremity, with barefoot running as opposed to shoe running. I’m not going to debate that - I agree with that. What it comes down to is when you have a shoe on, there is more of a heel strike as opposed to a non-shoe runner, where you strike more in your forefoot. When you heel strike, a lot of the energy you built up in a run gets taken away with a vertical heel strike. Opposed to if you’re landing on your toes, that energy isn’t as absorbed, it gets put back into to propel you forward. I would agree barefoot running is slightly more efficient than running with shoes. A slight amount.

However, barefoot running isn’t for everybody. If you look at the mechanics of it, not everyone can handle it. It’s a very small percentage of the population. The percentage who can run barefoot and not create problems, that’s great. It’s very few and far between.

There’s absolutely no study currently that has shown that a heel striking contributes to more injury than forefoot striking. Who cares if you have more force on your knee if it doesn’t cause any trouble?

You can never make a broad statement that barefoot running is better for you – not today. There are just too many variables. It may be better for that 2 percent - they might have a more efficient stride. We can never blanket that statement.

What types of people can run barefoot?

It has to do with muscle type, slow twitch/fast twitch mussels, reflex efficiency, connective tissue, stability of tissue, bone density of foot. Tissue type and foot function make a difference. There’s no way that the patients I see with collapsed arches could run barefoot. A flat foot is a severely unstable foot. We rely on adding support back to that foot so they can function better. That type of person would never be able to be a barefoot runner. And body weight matters. You’re not going to have a 250 pound person out there running barefoot. Body type, foot type, tissue type - that is what selects the type of people that can run barefoot.

The doctor from the study attributes the increased stress to the characteristic design of the majority of running shoes, including an elevated heel and increased material in the midsole arch. She suspects the cushioning in the heel counteracts the body’s natural response to compensate for the torque associated with impact.
Is there some truth in that?

Those numbers may be correct. It boils back to if you look at people running with shoes and without shoes. You do have more of a heel strike when you’re in a shoe- so that vertical force that gets absorbed through the heel goes up the leg, but I really can’t debate that. I’m not saying that added force is bad. Did it translate into knee problems? The stress doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a bad thing. Comparing the shoed-running to the non, there is more force that does get absorbed through our heel, ankle, knee and hip. However, our mind changes the foot position when you run barefoot, and its been shown they spend more time on their forefoot, which overall is slightly a more efficient way to run, but again not everyone can do it.

There are very few individuals who can withstand barefoot running. In today’s society, everyone wears shoes, it’s expected. You can’t go from wearing a shoe 98% of your life to running barefoot. Our society will never be without shoes. We can’t fight that. People with foot problems and foot pain- the worst thing they can do is run barefoot.

The doctor running the study said she isn’t advocating that runners take up barefoot running- just that her findings may be a reason to redesign running shoes.
What do you think makes a healthy athletic shoe?

I’m more for support. The population I’m dealing with, I’m always recommending support. For the 90 percent of the population who can’t run barefoot, the characteristics would include: a more slightly elevated heel than the forefoot, it takes tension away from Achilles tendon and plantar foot structures. The mainstream athletic shoe now has a thicker heel, because when the heel is slightly higher than your forefoot, it does relieve some of the stress of the Achilles tendon and plantar foot structures. A ridged sole with an appropriate flex point - it should only flex at the toe box not anywhere else. Because our toes need to flex there but we don’t need it anywhere else. A firm heel counter that goes around the back of our heel. It needs to be ridged. Adjustability is an important part of an athletic shoe- being able to fit the shoe well to your foot makes, the shoe will then provide better support. Uggs are very loose and sloppy, so they’re not supportive. It’s great if you can tighten the shoe around your foot. Also shoes that are durable, absorb shock.

There is a growing barefoot running community. Why do they say running barefoot feels better than in shoes?

Probably - for that few select group who can handle it - it boils down to it is a slightly more efficient stride. You’re avoiding that heel strike; that loss of vertical force that happens when we heel strike that is absorbing that energy isn’t there in the barefoot run.

What types of foot or joint problems will these people develop later?

If somebody new to barefoot running starts doing it, they can get plantar fasciitis. I have a patient who was a tri-athlete and started barefoot running and came down with plantar fasciitis. You can also get a variety of tendinitises or soft tissue injuries. If you’re already a slightly over-pronator, you’re going to really over-pronate and you can get tibial tendinitis. If we lived without shoes, we’d probably have more success at barefoot running. The bone density might be better and muscles would be stronger. But we’re not always on our barefeet – it’s our society and culture to live in shoes and that’s the way it’s always going to be. We’re not in the best position to run barefoot.

Is there any activity that people should do barefoot, besides showering?

Exposing our body to being barefoot is important to a degree. We rely on our feet for many other reasons other than propulsion - we use them to see what the temperature is of the ground, if the ground is level, if the ground is moving. We have all these nerves that give us feedback that we don’t even think about. To basically exercise that sensory input is best done barefoot. We do use muscles in the feet a little more - tiny intrinsic muscles in the foot, we use them more barefoot. Exposing ourselves to barefoot time is appropriate, but there is a balance.

Why is support in a shoe good for your feet?

Our foot needs to serve as a rigid lever so that we have that lever to propel ourselves forward. That’s why we got rid of that opposable big toe. We don’t climb trees anymore. So we use feet primarily to make us go forward. We need stability, we need our foot to be on the rigid side so it does its job, so we can contract our muscles so we can go forward. So support is imperative for our normal functioning foot. A good percentage of people are over-pronators: about 60 to 80% of people. Pronation is a normal motion in our ankle. Pronation is when the arch goes down. We don’t want to over-do anything. Over-pronation is absolutely not good for feet. It causes many problems in the feet. Adding support to prevent this over-pronation of the foot is important.

As we get older, we need more and more support around our foot. We lose our ability to support our feet. Gravity will slowly drop your arches, lose stability in your tissues of your feet. 

If you had the time and resources to do a study, what type of study would you do?

Something that has to do with women and high heels - because that’s a huge speed bump for us in foot medicine. Dealing with women with foot problems that need to wear high heels. I’d put some research into the ultimate high heel that’s good for the foot. There have been attempts.

Nowadays socks have evolved to include moisture wicking features, seamless toe designs, compression fitting styles, and extra padded sections to protect the fat pads of feet.  They’re manufactured with numerous types of fabrics, yarns, and materials; plus they come in various styles, sizes, lengths, and colors.  There’s really no big mystery to socks.  All you have to do is a little bit of research to find which types of socks are best suited for you; because at the end of the day, it’s all about keeping your healthy feet healthy.  So to help demystify socks, HealthyFeetStore.com has listed some recommendations below.  Of course, if you’re a diabetic or have edema, or are suffering from other foot problems, we highly recommend consulting with a health professional to determine which types of socks you should wear.

Diabetic Socks
Not only do diabetics have to make sure they wear proper diabetic shoes, they also have to pay attention to the types of socks they wear.  Socks made out of 100% cotton are a definitely not recommended because they tend to be rough around the seams, which could cause friction and irritation.  They also absorb moisture but not wick it away, which can be a breeding ground for bacterial and fungi growth; and unfortunately this could lead to other foot problems such as athlete’s foot and bad foot odor.  Tight socks are also not recommended to wear because they can cut off circulation to the feet and as a result, healing from injuries can take a lot longer due to the lack of blood flow.  HealthyFeetStore.com recommends Pressurelite socks and Jobst diabetic socks.  Pressurelite offers socks with seamless designs, pressure relieving socks, and extra-large sized socks for enlarged feet.  These socks are padded along high pressure areas, have anti-bacterial fibers to wick moisture away, and are non restrictive.  Jobst socks present similar features.  They’re non-irritating, are made with moisture wicking fibers, and have an antibacterial finish to reduce the risk of infection and odor.

Compression Socks and Hosiery for Edema
Those suffering from swollen feet caused by edema or diabetes should wear compression socks or stockings.  Standing or sitting for long periods of time such as in airplane flights and car rides can also cause these conditions to flare up.  Compression therapy improves valve functioning and reduces symptoms when the compression is graduated, or when the pressure is greatest at the ankle and reduced gradually up the leg.  Compression socks and hosiery come in various compression ranges: Light 9-12 mm HG, Light to Moderate 15-20 mm HG, Moderate 20-30 mm HG, and Firm for heavy support.  HealthyFeetStore.com recommends the following: Jobst compression socks,  Activa compression socks, and Aetrex compression socks.  Jobst socks come in styles for pregnant women, are lightweight and breathable, are made from high tenacity nylon yarns, and have reinforced heel and toe designs.  Acitva socks come in a variety of fashionable styles, are ideal for frequent flyers to prevent blood clots and embolism formation, and relieve leg fatigue.  Aetrex socks not only offer compression benefits, but also remove 99.9% of bacteria, fungi, and odor in socks.

Orthopedic Socks
When it comes to selecting socks, try to pay attention to what they offer.  Sure one could go to the local department store and buy the cheapest pair of socks available, but is that really the smart thing to do?  Chances are one will experience common foot problems such as athlete’s foot and bad foot odor, or feet can get irritated because of the poor materials used when manufacturing the socks.  Cheaply made socks can also be very uncomfortable and bulge up in unwanted places within the shoe causing pain and blisters.  To avoid this from happening, HealthyFeetStore.com recommends Aetrex socks and Thorlos socks.  Aetrex socks are made with Copper Sole Technology™ to remove 99.9% of bacteria, fungi, and odor in socks.  They also feature Moisture Guard™ to keep feet dry by wicking moisture away, have extra cushioning from heel to toe, and have elasticized arch support.  Thorlos socks come with similar features with the exception that they offer extra cushioning along the bottom of the socks to prevent fat pad deterioration.  They’re also made with various synthetic fibers such as THOR•LON® Acrylic, Thermolite®, Coolmax®, and Nylon.  These fibers offer protection from blisters, maintain resiliency, wick away moister, and keep feet cooler.

Don’t settle for cheaply made socks because in the long run, they could cause more harm than good.  Remember, the right type of socks can play an important role in gaining and maintaining healthy feet; and by shopping at HealthyFeetStore.com, you’ll find the highest quality made socks to keep your healthy feet healthy.

“Our feet are the connection to the earth and our body rests on them. Everything from the ground up really depends on our feet.”
- Dr. Andrew Weil, M.D.

Good health can determine how long we live as well as the quality of life we experience. Life is short, so wouldn’t you think that most of us would do everything possible to live healthier? The fact of the matter is that a lot of us don’t live healthy - for many reasons. Whether it’s ignorance, poor habits, laziness, financial reasons, or any other reason, most of us are going to remain unhealthy; and unless we all uniformly change our ways, we can be certain that someday many of us will suffer the consequences.

But we can change; and luckily, sometimes we run into people that can not only help educate us and raise awareness about the importance of living a healthy life, but also lead by example.  Dr. Andrew Weil, M.D. is such a person who has been a leading advocate and establisher of integrative medicine. He is a trusted health advisor and the founder of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine; and author of over ten books and numerous publications all focusing on health and wellness. He believes that proper foot care promotes optimum health from the ground up - and we at HealthyFeetStore.com couldn’t agree more.

There’s a reason why the word ‘healthy’ is in the title of our online store. All of the products we offer come with features to either enhance healthy feet or prevent unhealthy foot problems. One of our main goals is to provide a place where customers can find the finest foot care  products and orthopedic shoes available; and we carefully select only the best brand names in the industry.  Orthaheel is a quality brand name, and Dr. Andrew Weil recommends their ground-breaking approach to foot health.

Orthaheel’s Tri-Planar Motion Control system has made it possible for consumers to restore their natural foot function by reducing pronation along the three planes of motion - frontal, sagittal, and transverse. This is accomplished with Orthaheel’s built-in orthotic footbed that is podiatrist designed and clinically proven to provide orthotic support and stability so that posture is improved and lower legs are realigned properly. Orthaheel footwear products provide relief from pain caused by aching legs, plantar fasciitis, heel pain, knee pain, and back pain.

Orthaheel  sandals and shoes also provide exceptional arch support and are constructed with durable features such as PU uppers, EVA midsoles, and rubber outsoles.   Orthaheel offers numerous styles of orthopedic sandals, from athletic flip flops in unisex sizes, to chic looking women’s thong sandals with adjustable buckles.  Orthaheel also has a 30 Day Guarantee (they guarantee your comfort or your money back).

Although obtaining good health can be a challenge for many of us, it certainly can pay off in the future. Starting with your feet is a perfect beginning and wearing Orthaheel footwear can definitely start you on the right track. If it’s good enough for Dr. Weil, it’s good enough for us.

Like people, shoes have distinct personalities that make them unique and loveable. So we matched each Zodiac sign with a HealthyFeetStore shoe, based on its physical and functional traits. (This Shoe Horoscopes post is for stylish orthopedic shoes for women - the next one will be for men’s orthopedic shoes.)

Aries (March 21- April 19) – Adventurous and energetic, Aries have a bold attitude to go where others don’t want to go. They are filled with enthusiasm and confidence, but their impatience can set them back. Aries are quick-witted with dynamic personalities, and tend to be selfish, quick tempered and impulsive. These daredevil people are passionate about work and play, but don’t expect them to play by the rules.

The shoe: New balance 1010 Cross Training Shoe, because Aries need a shoe to keep up with them. Made for all sorts of exercises, the wearer can be as spontaneous as she wants while in this women’s athletic shoe. The synthetic/mesh upper is both physically appealing and functional, keeping the Aries as cool as possible.    Also: The Earth Exer-Clog would be a great shoe choice as well, because it is easy to put on and take off, due to its clog style. With its special sole, the toes are positioned higher than the heel, so it feels as though you’re walking on an incline, giving your muscles a work out.

Taurus (April 20- May 20) – Sometimes considered boring, the Taurus transmits patience and reliability. These people are warm-hearted, loving and have common sense, making them great lovers. Taurean are methodical, careful and decisive. With their natural charm, soft voices and calmness, no wonder Taurean are complacent with their lives.

The shoe: Comfortrite Julia, because it is super comfortable and super simple. It may not be the fanciest shoe, but wearers don’t want to take it off. This women’s Mary Jane style shoe is incredibly soft and adjustable, making it therapeutic and reliable for your feet. With a removable cushioned footbed and stretchable upper, this shoe will calm any aches you may have.  Also: The Softwalk Lavagna is a closed-toe summer shoe that is practical and comfortable. The super soft footbed will keep your feet at rest, and the Lavagna is a style you can wear anywhere.

Gemini (May 21- June 21) – Communication is the Gemini’s main tool. These people are witty, intellectual, youthful and lively. They know a little about everything and try their best to stay rational. Unlike a lot of people, they aren’t afraid to take advice. Gemini like challenges, enjoy success and need to keep busy. Their high energy levels need to be burned off, as they act forever young.

The Shoe: Aetrex Ellie, because it’s hip and athletic. Its firm shoe construction and cushioned interior add support and comfort, beneficial for those suffering from plantar fasciitis and foot arthritis. This women’s casual shoe’s gradual toe spring allows a smooth weight transfer, as to not slow you down while you’re on the go.   Also: The Orthaheel Solana is a youthful and fun style. This faux cork adjustable strap sandal is comfortable and available in five Spring-inspired colors.

Cancer (June 22- July 22) – One of the most emotional of the signs, the Cancer is protective and moody. These caring, sensitive people can also be cautious. Home life is very important to them, as is money. Cancers have a strong imagination and need regular exercise for good health. The Cancer is a crab symbol and rules smoky gray and silvery blue colors.

The shoe: Orthaheel Wave, because it is a waterproof flip flop that can be worn at the beach, pool or for casual wear. This women’s healthy sandal cares about your feet, since it treats heel pain, ball of foot pain and will prevent other unhealthy foot conditions. Popular and sure to keep the Cancers happy, the Wave flip flop is both podiatrist approved and designed.

Leo July (21- Aug. 22) – Leos are the free spirits who need to do what they like to do. They are organizational and have a lot of creative energy. A commonly bad fault with Leos is their assumption that they know best, and they therefore need to learn to respect others’ ideas. Leos live life to the fullest and live it hard. They also hate low quality things and can be very dramatic. Others must be sure to keep off Leos’ toes.

The shoe: Drew Jasmine, because this dress shoe has a wild, fancy style. The covered toe area of the Jasmine will prevent people from stepping on your toes. This pump is begging for the lime light, and its proud stature doesn’t prevent it from being comfortable. With three different colors to choose from, you will never have aching feet when you go out in this women’s dress shoe.   Also: It’ll be easy to draw attention to yourself while you wear the Naot Esteem, because its heel and swivel straps create a fun, dressy look. The various colors available make this shoe the perfect accessory for any outfit.

Virgo (Aug. 23- Sept. 22) – Hard working and practical, Virgos deal sensibly with others. They are talkative and enjoy debates. Although they’re modest, they can be too critical and tend to nag. Virgos are good with details but need to work on their confidence. These people love nature and fresh air. It is recommended that Virgos meditate for relaxation and to feel oneness with the world.

The shoe: Naot Primrose, because this feminine shoe is lively and sports a leaf-like design. The standard Naot footbed that is in this shoe is extremely comfortable and beneficial for your feet. With the lightweight and durable 1 1/2”, your feet won’t feel tired in these shoes. The openness of the shoe welcomes the sunlight and the different color combinations are Earthy and fashionable.   Also: The Birkenstock Arizona sandals are as Earthy as they are simple. If you’re a nature-lover, you will love the Arizona sandals.

Libra (Sept. 23- Oct. 23) – These romantic people will do anything so they don’t hurt anyone. Libras are very indecisive, creative and hate loneliness. They appear to be relaxed but are always thinking. Always striving to be in romantic relationships, Libras are peace-loving, generous and charming people. They are known to be beautiful, fair and sophisticated.

The shoe: Moszkito Wing Crystal Flip Flop, because its sleek and simple design is perfect for the graceful, mature woman. It offers arch support, a contoured footbed and will decrease foot fatigue while walking. Rhinestones add a modest amount of dazzle to the design, completing this women’s flip flop’s charming look.

Scorpio (Oct. 24- Nov. 21) – Be wary, because Scorpios can sting. Deeply emotional, their strong energy can be both good and bad. These people are intelligent, talkative, exciting and passionate. But they can also be compulsive, obsessive and jealous. Scorpios relish working hard and don’t want anything in their way.

The shoe: Naot Allure Boot, because nothing can stand in the way of this women’s orthopedic boot. Let’s face it - it can be tough in the real world. It’s leather upper, buckle design and 2.5” heel means business. The specially-designed footbed will keep your feet from aching, unlike most other stylish boots. Expect to make plenty other women jealous when they see you sporting the Allure.

Sagittarius (Nov.22- Dec. 21) – Sags enjoy having freedom almost as much as they love a good joke. But don’t be fooled – these class clowns can also be honest and hardworking. These people like change, intelligent people and the outdoors. Their philosophical mindset and optimistic attitude make them enjoyable to be around. Sags love to be outside and despise being closed in.

The shoe: Sole Sports Flip Flop, because it’s a functional, healthy sandal that is great to wear outside. Sags won’t feel confined in this women’s healthy flip flop. It offers arch support and a deep heel cup to support your foot and prevent pain. Over time, the sole will contour to the shape of each unique foot. A hidden toe ridge will provide extra grip and the natural/synthetic rubber blend material will provide better footing, making the Sole a smart choice.

Capricorn (Dec. 22- Jan. 19) – These are business-oriented people who like to do the right thing. They are ambitious, disciplined and have a huge sense of humor. Capricorns expect to be at the top for work, love money and need structured backgrounds. These people blend in well with others, but their righteousness makes them stand out.

The shoe: Aetrex Andrea Stretch Wedge, because it’s a work-appropriate, women’s dress shoe that works hard to keep your feet healthy. The soft, stretchy material yields to the shape of the foot. The wedge and leather toe cap mean business, but the simplicity of the shoe won’t put you in the lime light.

Aquarius (Jan. 20- Feb. 18) – Optimistic and honest, Aquarians are loyal friends. They need their independence and don’t like to be fenced in. These people try to see the best in others and understand that not everyone is as blessed as them. Although Aquarians learn from past experiences, they can be very stubborn.

The shoe: Finn Comfort Phuket, because it’s a flexible, open thong sandal with a removable footbed for additional comfort. The toe strap is also adjustable, promising the wearer as much room as she wants.

Pisces (Feb. 19- March 20) – Caring and sensitive are two of Pisces best traits. These people take the road of least resistance, don’t like change and love hard. Creativity flows through their veins, but they are sensitive and harbor resentments. Pisces live in a world they have created, enjoy creative things, love detail and get hurt easily.

The shoe: PG Lite Alegria Paloma Mary Jane (Prints), because this shoe is a unique, detail-oriented orthopedic shoe. This cute Mary Jane style has a rocker bottom, wide toe box and a super soft footbed so it’s extremely comfortable. The various printed uppers give it a fun, creative flare.   Also: Check out our new PG Lite’s sandals for Spring 2010. Pisces will love the vibrant colors and unique look.

We’re staying optimistic about Valentine’s Day and we invite you to do the same. Whether you have a date or not, it should be a time to express your love … for yourself. Focus on your inner and outer beauty, both accentuated by your health. There are many activities you can do by yourself (or with friends) to make Valentine’s Day an enriching, peaceful experience. Don’t be one of the 15% of American women who send themselves flowers on Valentine’s Day – celebrate you, your body and your health.

Massage:  We’re not talking about a 15 minute massage that you had a friend give you – go get a professional massage to cleanse your body and mind. The benefits of getting a professional massage include relieving muscle pain, reducing stress and increasing circulation. There are many different types of massages, but the most common two are deep tissue and Swedish. A deep tissue massage is focused on relieving tension in the muscles and fascia. Deep Tissue massage is designed to relieve severe tension in the muscle and fascia. This type of massage is recommended for people who have consistent pain or are athletes. The Swedish massage is more relaxing. With long, flowing strokes, this type of massage can reduce pain, joint stiffness, improve circulation and reduce stress. Before your massage starts, ask for a particular mist or scented oil to enhance the comfortable atmosphere. Be sure to drink a lot of water afterward to flush out the released toxins.

Bubble bath:  Who doesn’t love bubble baths? Nothing is more relaxing and peaceful than laying in a foam-filled tub. Read a book or put on some soothing music while you rest in bubbly bliss. Bubble bath gel can be bought at any retail store that sells bath items, and it can be found in a wide variety of scents, including fruity, sweet and floral. You can make your own bubble bath by adding in a little mineral oil or baby oil to the water. For a skin-softening bath, add a cup of powdered milk to the warm, running water. Adding bath salts will benefit your skin in numerous ways. The salts change the osmotic balance of the water, therefore decreasing the amount of water absorbed by the skin and reducing the “pruning” effect to the skin. Bath salts also soften and exfoliate your skin. If you’re feeling creative, you can soothe your skin with all-natural, homemade bath and body products that you can make at home.

Sauna: Kick it up a notch and let some steam into your life. Saunas can be found at public pools, gyms and spas, so they’re easily accessible. The main idea: relax in a hot, humid room and sweat. The temperature inside of a sauna is around 176 °F, but it stays humid enough so you don’t dry up. Saunas are widely used in all parts of the world, and are not harmful for the elderly or even infants. You can relax in a sauna to reduce stress. Saunas have also been said to temporarily relieve the symptoms of the common cold, improve exercise tolerance, reduce chronic pain and decreases symptoms found with many heart problems. It even has been found that they help those with eating disorders and depression.

Go shopping: Shop for yourself, friends or loved ones on our web site! Show the ones you love that you care about their health. We’re offering 10% off of all the items listed on our Valentine’s Day Gift page (offer expires Feb. 28, 2010) when you use the coupon code Lovefeet. You can also get free ground shipping on any order over $50 if you use the coupon code myvalentine10. Pep up your look and enhance your health with our wellness foot care products and orthopedic shoes.

Yummy dessert: Treat yourself to a healthy, yet delicious dessert. Having a healthy dessert does not mean you have to skip out on the chocolate or peanut butter – be sure to whip up something to satisfy your sweet tooth and feel free to sprinkle in some of your favorite fruit. Eating Well’s web site has a lot of healthy dessert recipes that you can make on Valentine’s Day to share with friends or to enjoy by yourself. Stay away from foods that are high in saturated fats, trans fats and sodium, so you can lick that dessert plate clean without loading up on the calories.

Rest easy: After a long day of pampering and spoiling yourself, hop into bed early for a nice, long sleep. Spray some pillow mist on your pillows and covers, like Bath & Body Works’ Aromatherapy pillow most in Lavender Chamomile or Warm Milk & Honey. It’ll put you right to sleep. And the cherry on top: wear a silky face mask for the ultimate spa-like experience. It’ll make you even more excited to say “bye” to Valentine’s Day.

Valentine’s Day Post Part 1:
Make sure you feel as good as you look on V-Day

For those of us who have a date for this special occasion, a major priority is looking and feeling amazing. Preparation is your friend – you want to make sure you’ve been eating right and exercising to bring out the best you. For radiating beauty, partake in some products and activities listed below.

Do Yoga: This traditional physical and mental discipline is more than 5,000 years old and has been growing rapidly popular. Yoga is a fun and healthy way to achieve a refreshing state of physical and mental calmness. But it isn’t a fad – many people consider this activity a lifestyle and do it religiously. Yoga has many different paths, but in the Western world, it’s commonly done as a light exercise and flexibility practice. You can find a yoga class near you and attend during your down time to strengthen your muscles, increase flexibility, relax your mind and enjoy a new, fun activity.

Get tan: …the healthy way, of course! Have a natural-looking tan without exposing your body to harmful UVA rays from tanning beds. Since the warm, summer sun has yet to show, you can find sunless tanning products everywhere. DHA (dihydroxyacetone) is a main ingredient in sunless tanning products and is approved by the FDA. The Environmental Working Group also lists zero health concerns with DHA. It’s a sugar that reacts with the dead cells located on the upper layer of the skin and therefore changes the color. It’s temporary, lasting about a week unless the lotion is used regularly. You can use Coppertone products for a safe and easy tan that you can achieve in minutes in your own home!

Liven up your face: Your face is the first thing people notice about you, so you need it to look happy and healthy. Face creams have been created to minimize wrinkles, increase moisture, close pores and soften the skin, for a natural, healthy appeal. You can buy face creams from many retailers or online. You can even give yourself a homemade facial. Try an aloe vera face mask the night before Valentine’s Day. Olive oil is also rich in Vitamin E which helps moisturizes the skin, and you can also put some in your hair as a silky, strengthening conditioner.

Make your feet presentable: Don’t get caught without clean nails on Valentine’s Day. Save yourself a trip to the nail salon and instead give yourself a manicure and pedicure. Dr.’s Remedy Enriched Antifungal, Non-Toxic Nail Polishes are available in 16 cute colors. This nail polish was designed to be healthy enough for pregnant women and diabetic women, and is made of tea tree oil, garlic bulb extract and wheat proteins. The Mycocide Antifungal Nailcare Kit comes with everything you need to clean and strengthen your nails for a polished look on your hands and feet. You can also buy our Dr.’s Remedy Enriched, Antifungal, Non-Toxic French Manicure Kit to give yourself a French manicure for the big date and for further ones to come. Beautify your feet and be proud to show them off!

Wear comfortable dress shoes: Aching feet is the last thing you want to be thinking about while you’re out on Valentine’s Day. Be sure to dress for the occasion while also being kind to your feet. Unhealthy shoes can limit what you want to do or how much time you want to spend out, and that can rub your date the wrong way. Browse through the wide selection of our women’s orthopedic dress shoes and rest assured that you will look fabulous without the pain associated in high heels.

Use healthy recipes: Eating healthy doesn’t only make you shed a few pounds, but it increases your overall health. Getting the right vitamins and minerals in your body can help your hair, nails, skin and energy level, so make sure you’re eating right to prep for Valentine’s Day. Also, if you plan to cook for the big night, wow your special someone with tasty yet feel-good-food to ensure you both are comfortable and energetic for the evening ahead. You can find a lot of healthy recipes for two at Eating Well’s web site.

All I can say is WOW!!!  I LOVE AETREX SOCKS!  I bought a pair of Aetrex Low Cut Athletic Copper Socks after I wrote about them on HealthyFeetStore.com; and I’m simply amazed at the vast differences between them and cheaply made socks I’ve worn in the past.  I never knew there were socks that could prevent bad foot odor.  Aetrex socks totally work.  I’ve been an athlete all of my life (for over 30 thirty years) and I always had to deal with the unfortunate odor of smelly feet.  I never knew that socks played a big role in that.  The older I got, the more I relied on foot powders and sprays to reduce the odor; but not anymore.  My feet don’t smell after wearing Aetrex socks.  One day my boss mentioned to me about the wonders of Aetrex socks, so I decided to purchase a pair; and now I’m happy to say that I have bought six more pairs and I plan to buy more.  The Aetrex Copper Sole Technology™ and Moisture Guard™ features really remove odor and wick away moisture.  My feet are dry and odor-free after I take off the socks.  These socks fit snug and never bunch up — I don’t have to worry about readjusting them either; plus the pull tab at the heel totally protects the back of my ankle from rubbing against my shoe; something I had to worry about when wearing other low cut socks.  And you could kiss blisters goodbye; you don’t get them after wearing these socks.  It’s strange but in a TOTALLY good way — sometimes it seems as though my feet don’t sweat in these socks because they stay soft and dry, but it’s really because of the moisture wicking feature.  AETREX SOCKS ARE SO AWESOME!!!

By John Almodovar, Content Writer and SEO Specialist for HealthyFeetStore.com.

A couple of years ago I tried my first pair of Aetrex copper socks in the low cut dress style. They were a sample pair given to me from an Aetrex sales representative at an orthotics/podiatric convention. Over the next month I wore them a few times and noticed that my feet were noticeably drier than they would be after wearing other types of socks.  One day at work I mentioned this to my staff, which made a few of them purchase a pair of their own; and after a few days of them wearing their socks, they all said the same thing, “I really like Aetrex socks!”  Well of course, this made me very happy to hear and I figured that if the feedback from HealthyFeetStore.com employees was so positive I knew we had to get these socks for our customers! Since then, I’ve been wearing the Aetrex low cut athletic socks for running and training at the gym. In addition to the soft durable fabric and the moisture wicking features, I love the tab in the back that keeps my socks from slipping down into my shoes. These socks are the only socks I wear for working out – whether I’m jogging outdoors or running on a treadmill at the gym, other socks don’t even compare to Aetrex socks!

By Melissa Kumler, Vice President and co-owner of HealthyFeetStore.com.

Like a lot of people, I buy a new pair of slippers every winter season. I prefer the clog style slipper, because they’re easy to put on and take off. Usually, I buy a cheap yet fluffy pair from a department store in the mall. But once I started working at Healthy Feet Store, I learned quickly that wearing the wrong kinds of slippers can impair your feet’s arches, decreasing your foot health and eventually leading to foot pain and perhaps joint pain. In order to prevent that, I knew I had to get a therapeutic slipper from our online store, www.healthyfeetstore.com.

I know that Giesswein is a great company that makes high-quality slippers in Austria - and they must know how to stay warm in Austria. Giesswein is also environmentally friendly by using recycled wool, water and natural rubber in its products. I instantly fell in love with the Gerolding slipper, so I impatiently ordered a pair and counted down the days till they were shipped to me.

Slipping them on for the first time changed my life. Well, at least the slipper-buying part of my life. Never again will I go back to cheap, store-brand slippers. The first thing I noticed about these slippers is the arch support. The cushioned arch is firm enough to protect my arches and keep my feet healthy, but soft enough for comfort during longtime wear. Astoundingly, my heels are kept in place when I walk in them, even though it’s a slip-on style. I also love that the lambswool Gerolding slippers keep my feet warm, but not sweaty. (The slippers also are available in white, dark blue and brown colors.)

These fabulous slippers are the first things I put on when I came home from work or when I wake up in the morning. My boyfriend said that if the Gerolding slippers came in bigger sizes, he’d buy a pair!

-Amanda is a content writer and web site editor for Healthy Feet Store. She also runs the company’s Twitter account: GetHealthyFeet.

Top 5 Foot Care Products of 2009:

Pedag Bambini Chrildren’s Arch Supports: Parents love these insoles because kids love them. These children’s orthotics made by Pedag are soft, flexible and will support a child’s arches and cushion the heel. The top is made of a soft leather and there is an adhesive stick pad on the bottom of them to keep them in place in the shoes.

Dr.’s Remedy Enriched, Antifungal, Non-Toxic Nail Polish: What girl doesn’t like nail polish? This antifungal, non-toxic nail polish is enhanced with Vitamins C and E to strengthen your nails and help treat nail fungus. This healthy nail polish is available in 16 different colors.

Arch Angels Kid’s Arch Support Insoles: These brightly-colored arch supports will promote proper weight distribution in the foot to alleviate the discomfort of flat feet, which can cause kids a lot of foot and heel pain. Arch Angels arch supports are especially good for children with flat feet, who need a stable base while walking and running.

Turf Toe Half Steel Insoles: Why is steel in insoles, you ask? The metal in these insoles is key to limiting the toe joint from flexing. These insoles are doctor-recommended because they can treat Turf Toe inside shoes you already own.

Powerstep Arch Support Inserts, Full Length: If  you want great orthotics, these are for you. Powerstep inserts have arch support, a double-layer cushion, a stabilizing heel cradle and a special anti-bacterial fabric cover. These arch supports (which also come in 3/4 length sizes) will relieve you from arch pain, heel pain, ankle pain, knee pain and back pain.

Top 5 Shoes of 2009:

Orthaheel Men’s & Women’s Healthy Flip Flop Sandal, Wave: Soothe your feet with cushion and substantial arch support with these unisex flip flops. The wave sandals can help correct pronation, back pain, knee pain, ankle pain and heel pain. The strap is made of a soft mesh and doesn’t rub against your feet causing irritation. This flip flop is waterproof and the outsole has a grip for traction.

Cloud Nine Men’s Sheepskin Moccasin Slipper: This was one of our biggest Christmas-time sellers. With a suede leather upper, super soft sheepskin inside and extra depth, these moccasin slippers will surround your foot with warmth. It has a durable skid-resistant outsole so you can wear these slippers to take quick trips outside, because you won’t want to take them off!

Orthaheel Women’s Arch Support Flip Flop Sandal, Tide: Another Orthaheel sandal made our top 5 list! The Tide is constructed like the Wave, except its strap has a two-tone design and comes in other colors, including a popular cranberry shade.

Comfortrite Men’s Diabetic Slipper, Heritage: Wrap your aching feet in the Heritage slippers. This slipper is soft, flexible, extremely light and has two removable insoles to accommodate you if you have edema or are recovering from foot surgery. There is a very wide opening for easy foot insertion and has one easy-to-use adjustable fastener, to accommodate those with tender, wounded feet. The heritage slipper comes in four colors and is also made for women.

Brooks Women’s Motion Control Walking Shoe, Addiction Walker: This walking shoe was created for women with sensitive feet. It has a broad midfoot, wide toebox and soft insole to accommodate bunions, hammertoes and corns. With four different widths to choose from, this shoe is customized to fit you perfectly. This athletic shoe also has a shock-absorbing heel and slip-resistant outsole, for additional control and comfort. The Addiction Walker is available with laces or adjustable straps, and is also made for men.