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Shoe shopping? Use your head

A foot blister can have a very painful effect on a person's daily routine.

Foot blisters generally occur because of friction and burns caused by shoes that don't fit a person's feet properly, but there's no reason you should have to grin and bear the pain of a foot blister -- especially if you purchase shoes that offer the right combination of size, comfort and support.

The Mayo Clinic suggests consumers keep the following tips in mind when shopping for shoes:

*Head out on a midday shoe-shopping trip. A person's feet swell throughout the day, so a midday fitting probably offers the best opportunity for a proper fit.

*Wear socks you'll use when walking, or bring them with you to the store.

*Measure your feet each time you buy new shoes. Shoe sizes change throughout adulthood.

*Measure both feet and always try on both shoes. If your feet differ in size, go with the larger size.

*Examine shoes for flexibility, support and cushioned insoles.

*Make sure you can comfortably wiggle your toes inside the new shoes.

*Avoid shoes with seams in the toe box. Seams may irritate bunions or hammertoes.

*Take care when buying socks, too. Special athletic socks, for instance, feature extra padding in critical areas.

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