Casting, strapping, and padding also help alleviate minor foot discomfort. In the case of bone malformation or other problems causing serious pain and difficulty walking, a podiatrist may recommend surgical intervention. Although footwear regulations for flight attendants vary among carriers, some flight attendants now have the opportunity to wear attractive shoes that are also comfortable and promote good foot health while at work in flight. Women who are required to wear heels in airports, or feel that they are, should get out of them and into comfortable, supportive shoes as soon as possible. As a rule of thumb, women should never wear heels higher than one and one-half inches.
Wider heels offer more support than narrow ones.
The best shoes for men are good quality oxfords, ordinarily associated with wing-tip or cap designs. When shopping for shoes, always have both of your feet measured while standing. Try on both shoes, and walk around the store for a few minutes to get a good feel of the shoe. Be aware that one foot frequently can be slightly larger than the other, and always buy for the larger foot. Shop for shoes late in the day, when feet naturally swell slightly.