Many allied health professionals are on their feet most of the day. And if they don't wear the right shoes with the right fit, they may be risking back injuries.

"Good shoes are important to provide adequate support for your feet and arches," said Peggy Freedman, an occupational therapist and owner of The Freedman Group, an OT practice that specializes in performing functional capacity evaluations in the workplace.

"When your shoes start to show wear on the heels or the sides, it's time to replace them, because they can put a tilt in the way you walk and cause backaches," she said.

Freedman offered these tips for buying the right shoe:

• Have shoes fitted properly. One of the best places to do this is a running store or a retailer that specializes in fitting.

"If it doesn't feel good — even the smallest pinch — when you're trying the shoe on, it's only going to feel worse day after day," Freedman said.

• Find a store that will analyze your gait. "This will help you get a shoe that works with the way you walk," she said.

• To help reduce the chance of slipping, find a shoe that provides good traction.

• Choose a shoe that fits your job.

"If you're in a setting with the risk of items falling on your shoes, be mindful of the construction on the top as well," Freedman said.

• Use thin, quality insoles that help cushion your foot.

"Most hospital floors are either vinyl or glued-down carpet, so there's not much cushion or padding. Research products on the Internet and with colleagues to choose the most effective," she said.

• Get fitted for shoes after the end of your shift, when your feet are at their widest, most swollen and may be hurting. "Don't go when you're rested, because you're not getting a fit for your circumstances," Freedman said.

• Have at least two pairs of matching shoes and wear them on alternate days. "This gives your shoes time to breathe and recover [from] a full day of wear," she said.

• Get off your feet a couple of times a day and elevate them. Even 10 minutes can be helpful. You can stand on one foot at a time for a break.

• For leg and circulation problems, consider wearing support hose. "This can help prevent varicose veins, reduce swelling and stimulate circulation. Even a light-support product can help," Freedman said.

• Treat yourself to foot soaks, a whirlpool, foot massages or reflexology.

"Talk with your organization's occupational or physical therapy department and ask for periodic training to assure that you're standing, walking and lifting properly," Freedman said. "Encourage refresher classes and include training in staff orientations."

Perhaps you have shoes that are broken in and feel great. Freedman says to ditch them for new ones that fit correctly.

"You simply can't extend the life of a shoe," she said. "If you're becoming fatigued or experiencing back pain, check your shoes. Everyone's feet are different, and practical shoes don't have to be ugly. They just need to fit properly, support your feet and provide good cushioning."