We use our feet all day—walking, standing, working, exercising. But most of us don’t give them much thought until something starts to hurt.

At West Haven Foot and Ankle Center, we often hear patients say things like, “I didn’t do anything special, but now my heel is killing me,” or “I just woke up with foot pain out of nowhere.”

Truth is, foot problems often sneak up on you from the little things you do every day without realizing it.

Here are 5 everyday habits that might be hurting your feet, and what you can do instead to stay comfortable and pain-free.

1. Wearing Worn-Out Shoes

That favorite pair of sneakers or flats might look fine—but the inside tells a different story.

Shoes break down over time, especially if you wear them often. Once the arch support and cushioning wear out, your feet lose the protection they need.

What this can lead to:

• Heel pain (like plantar fasciitis)

• Sore arches

• Knee or back discomfort

What to do instead: Replace your shoes every 6–12 months if you wear them regularly. Look for supportive shoes with a solid heel cup, good arch support, and shock-absorbing soles.

2. Walking Barefoot on Hard Floors

Hardwood, tile, and concrete floors look nice—but they’re tough on your feet, especially if you go barefoot around the house.

What this can lead to:

• Arch pain

• Heel inflammation

• Stress on your joints and tendons

What to do instead: Keep a pair of supportive house slippers or sandals nearby. Look for ones with a contoured footbed and some cushioning, not just a flat flip-flop.

3. Standing for Long Periods Without Breaks

If your job keeps you on your feet (teachers, nurses, retail workers—we see you), that constant pressure adds up.

What this can lead to:

• Achy feet and legs

• Swelling

• Strain on the plantar fascia or Achilles tendon

What to do instead: Try to take sitting breaks every hour, even just for a few minutes. Compression socks can also help reduce fatigue and swelling. And if pain persists, ask us about custom orthotics to support your feet better throughout the day.

4. Wearing the Wrong Shoes for Your Foot Type

Not all feet are built the same—some people have flat feet, others have high arches. Wearing generic shoes that don’t support your unique foot shape can cause long-term issues.

What this can lead to:

• Pain in the balls of your feet

• Bunions or hammertoes

• Overpronation or poor alignment

What to do instead: Visit a foot and ankle specialist in West Haven (like us!) for a proper foot evaluation. We can help match you with the right type of shoe—or even design custom orthotics that fit your feet like a glove.

5. Ignoring Foot Pain

This one might sound obvious, but many people push through foot pain, hoping it’ll go away on its own. That’s understandable—but it can also be risky.

What this can lead to:

• Worsening of small injuries

• Chronic pain

• More complicated issues down the road

What to do instead: Foot pain is never “normal.” If something doesn’t feel right—whether it’s your heel, ankle, toes, or anything in between—it’s worth getting checked out. The earlier we catch it, the easier it is to treat.

Your Feet Deserve Some TLC

Your feet do a lot for you. With a few small changes in your daily habits, you can give them the support and care they need to keep moving comfortably.

At West Haven Foot and Ankle Center, Dr. Sean Lazarus and our friendly team are here to help you feel better—whether you’re dealing with heel pain, sore arches, bunions, or anything else that’s slowing you down.

We look at your whole lifestyle, not just your feet, to help you move better and feel your best.

Ready to give your feet the care they deserve? Book an appointment today and let’s get you walking pain-free again.