Many athletes wear cleats while they play sports. Used in everything from soccer and football to softball and baseball, these shoes offer the traction players need to stay steady on their feet. If you’re searching for a quality pair that puts your foot care needs first, here’s what you need to know.

How Do You Fit Cleats Properly?

The right pair of cleats will fit your feet a little snugly but won’t feel so tight that they cause pain. Ideally, your feet will still move a little bit once placed in the shoe, so you’ll be able to easily control your feet when you’re in motion. Make sure your toes don’t contact the topmost portion of the cleat, or you'll risk injury or swelling of the toes.  

Can Cleats Cause Foot Pain?

Pain from wearing cleats typically occurs because the shoes don't provide adequate support for the arches and the bottoms of the feet. That can lead to serious and painful concerns  affecting both your performance when participating in sports and your comfort off the playing field, including plantar fasciitis, sprained ankles, and blisters. This is why it’s crucial to choose cleats that fit properly, as a shoe that’s too tight could cause these issues. 

What Tips Should You Consider?

Once you find a quality pair of cleats, make sure you break them in before you wear them to participate in sports. Avoid wearing them for the first time during a practice session or a game. If you do suffer an injury, make your foot care needs a priority by taking a break from sports until you’ve completely healed. 

Keep your weight off the affected foot, apply ice to the area two to three times each day for up to 20 minutes at a time, and keep it elevated to minimize swelling. If necessary, consider wearing orthotics in your cleats for greater arch support and a cushion at the heel to prevent chafing and discomfort.

If you’re concerned that you may have an injury caused by your cleats, turn to the team at Choice Podiatry Associates. Based in Cincinnati, OH, they offer a range of foot care services to treat everything from plantar fasciitis to ankle sprains. Visit the website to learn more about their services, or call (513) 574-2424 to schedule an appointment.