Don't drag your feet in seeking medical attention

Also trendy at the moment are thick, heavily cushioned soles with higher heel drops.

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FROM C2

A heel drop is the difference in height between the shoe's heel and forefoot, which is around the ball of the foot.

According to Ms Ng, a higher drop—around 10mm to 12mm—typically encourages a heel strike and causes more impact on the knees and hips, while a lower drop of between 1mm and 4mm promotes a mid-foot or forefoot strike, potentially increasing stress on the balls of the foot, as well as tendinous structures in the mid-foot and ankle.

"I suspect many shoes these days have a higher heel drop for a better step-in feel," says Mr Oo, who has recently noticed shoes with heel drops of up to 18mm.

"Higher drop shoes reduce usage and strain of the lower limbs. However, this comes at the expense of strain shifting towards the knees and lower back, which wearers might notice only after they have been walking longer," he adds.

While shoes with high heel drops can be beneficial for those who suffer from calf muscles or Achilles tendon issues, Ms Ng emphasises the need to test such shoes thoroughly before wearing them long term.

She also cautions against shoes with too much cushioning in their soles.

"The nerve fibres that help activate your muscles lie about 4mm below the skin. If your shoes are too soft, you don't get enough compression to stimulate those nerves," she says.

This can result in under-activated muscles that, over time, weaken your stability and increase your risk of foot injuries.

HOW TO FIND YOUR FIT Asians typically have wider and shorter feet than Westerners, says Mr Oo.