SHOES - Wearing the wrong shoes is one of the biggest causes of foot ailments. Too often we choose shoes for style rather than comfort and function. Good shoes are part of good foot care. Follow this checklist when you buy shoes:

Leather is best because is breathes like skin and molds to your foot. But cheaper canvas is fine for fast-growing children.

Soles should be strong and flexible with a good gripping surface.

Insoles should be cushioned to absorb the jolts of walking on hard surfaces.

Arch supports distribute weight over a wider area. Rigid shanks also give added support.

High heels are fun and look good, but they should not be worn too long or for much walking. Besides cramping the toes, they change body posture, making backaches more likely.

BUYING SHOES - Only you can tell if shoes fit. If they aren't comfortable, don't buy them.

Don't plan on shoes stretching with wear. If you have shoes that are too tight, see if a shoe repair shop can be stretch them to fit.

Have your feet measured every time you buy shoes. Both feet should be measured as they are often different sizes. Always buy shoes for the bigger foot.

Feet swell, so go shoe shopping late in the afternoon.

Don't insist you always wear one size if the next feels better.

You should be able to wiggle all your toes.

The heel should fit snugly and the instep should not gape open.

If you can't find shoes that fit, ask your doctor for advice.

SHOES FOR CHILDREN - Good shoes are especially important to avoid problems in the developing feet of children.

Because shoes serve only to protect children's feet from injury, no shoes are needed before a child walks.

High-topped infant shoes do not support ankles, therefore oxfords and/or tennis shoes are an equally good choice.

Check often to be sure shoes fit. Children's feet are very flexible and can be cramped into shoes two sizes too small, and the child may not complain.

Don't have children wear hand-me-down shoes. Shoes are permanently molded to the original owner's foot.

Three out of every four Americans experience serious foot problems in their lifetime. Only a small percentage of these are born with foot issues. Neglect and a lack of awareness of proper care cause most feet problems.

Walking is the best possible exercise for your feet.

Wash your feet daily. Rinse off all soap and dry thoroughly, especially between toes.

Trim nails straight across, and not too short. Don't cut out or dig at corners.

Do not trim, shave, or use over-the-counter medicines to dissolve corns or calluses

Wear clean socks or stockings, changed daily. Don't wear any that are too short or too tight.

Wear shoes that fit.

Use foot powder.

See your doctor about persistent foot problems.

WALKING - Your heel swings from side to side as your foot moves. When the heel swings correctly, your foot can flatten and regain its arch as you walk. But if your heel swings too much, your foot may flatten more than it should. When your foot flattens too much (overpronation), some bones are forced to support too much weight. The muscles pull harder on these areas, making it more difficult for tendons and ligaments to hold bones and joints in place. Over time, you may develop swelling or pain on the bottom of your foot or near the heel. Or a bony bump (bunion) may form at your toe joint.

To prevent your feet from flattening too much, be certain that your are wearing proper footwear, and be aware of your body position and movements while you are walking.. Keeping good general health will also help. Strong bones and muscles will help you move properly.