When a shoe fits too loosely or too tightly, the shoe may cause friction against the foot. One area that is commonly subjected to friction is the back of the heel. When a shoe rubs against the back of the heel of the foot, the friction can cause blisters to develop. Whenever possible, the person should only purchase shoes that fit properly as to not cause blisters or other problems with the feet.
Foam heel liners can help stop the rubbing of the shoes on the back of the heel. Sometimes this friction is caused by the material of which the shoe is constructed. If the shoe is made of a stiff material like leather, the top of the back of the shoe may scrape along the back of the foot. This causes redness, irritation, soreness, and eventually blisters.
Placing foam heel liners just under the back rim of the shoe can often prevent blisters. The foam liners for shoes cushion the foot from the shoe. If a shoe is too big, the shoe moves on the foot when the person takes a step. The back of the shoe may slide down as the person lifts their foot. When the person puts their foot back on the floor, it can cause the back of the shoe to rub against the heel as it goes back in place. The cushioning from heel liners keeps the edge of the shoe from irritating the heel of the foot.
Heel liners are not always made of foam. Someone may prefer gel heel liners or another cushioning material. The heel liners are made to fit any shoe though the usual example for their use is with woman’s high heels with backs. Men are not as likely to have this problem since they wear socks that can cushion some of the force from the back of the shoe. The heel liners have adhesive backs that stick to the inside of the back of the shoe.
Wearing shoes that fit properly is important for foot health. If someone has diabetes, foot care and properly fitting footwear is especially important. Though insoles can help for occasional use of the shoes, it would be better not to rely on them for frequent use. Blisters on the backs of the heels may be prevented by the foam heel liners, but other foot problems can be caused by footwear that doesn’t fit correctly.
