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Do Feet Shrink with Age? Here’s the Answer

Posted by:

Johannes Sauer

Updated at: March 28, 2025

Table of Contents

  1. Reasons Why Feet Might Feel Smaller

    1. Weight Loss

    2. Charcot Foot

    3. Foot Deformities

  2. Effects of Aging on Feet

    1. Muscle Weakness

    2. Extended Healing Time from Injury

  3. Can You Slow Foot Pain with Age?

Ever find yourself wondering, “do feet shrink with age?” The short answer is no.

You do lose fatty padding on your soles. But people more commonly have to size up in footwear rather than size down. The tendons and ligaments are less elastic, and weight gain can play a role as well.

Reasons Why Feet Might Feel Smaller

Even though aging does not really cause feet to shrink, you still may find that your feet feel smaller. Why does this happen? Here are a few possible explanations.

Weight Loss

Weight loss is one of the most common reasons for feet feeling smaller, and you might lose weight while you age.

The bone structure of your feet does not shrink. But there may be a loss of fat and swelling. Inflammation can decrease. As a result, your feet may feel smaller.


Charcot Foot

Some aging people might experience a rare disease called Charcot foot. Those with diabetes are especially susceptible.

Charcot foot causes weakness in the foot, as well as deformity such as curled toes. Since the foot’s shape can change, it can seem to shrink. In severe cases, amputation may even become necessary. 

Foot Deformities

There are other types of foot deformities as well that are common among older adults. Some of these include bunions, hammertoes, claw toes. If one of these conditions is affecting your feet, they might seem smaller. 

Effects of Aging on Feet

Mar 28, 2025

While aging does not cause feet to shrink, it can still have effects on your feet, including muscle weakness and slower healing times.

Muscle Weakness

Muscle weakness is a rampant issue among middle aged and elderly people. Mayo Clinic reports that starting as early as age 50, muscles decrease in size and strength by 10-15% yearly.

By the time a person reaches age 65, up to 80% of their lower body strength may be gone. Naturally, this includes muscles in the feet. This, too, could make it seem like feet have gotten smaller.

Extended Healing Time from Injury

Knee and leg injuries can be exacerbated with age, taking longer to heal than they did during a person’s younger years.

Can You Slow Foot Pain with Age?

The best way to keep foot pain in check while aging is to take a proactive approach to monitoring and treating foot problems.

The faster you spot a potential foot problem, the earlier you can intervene, giving you the best chance at a favorable outcome.

In addition, you can make lifestyle changes such as exercising diligently and wearing therapeutic shoes.

One great option is the Cadense shoes for seniors. These shoes help to improve safety and reduce foot pain and problems. Here are some of the features that make them a standout product for aging feet:

  • Variable friction technology: This patented technology is unique to Cadense shoes, and lets them “glide” across uneven ground. This is helpful if you have trouble lifting the front parts of your feet (as in foot drop).
  • Tread: Enhanced tread helps to prevent slips and falls.
  • Arch support: Get the extra support you need for your arches as your feet change shape with age.
  • Lightweight materials: The lightweight materials and design for Cadense shoes for seniors reduces fatigue while walking. 
  • Support and stability: These shoes feature a wide, stable base, comfortable cushioning, and support to help wearers to maintain their balance and prevent injuries. 
  • Easy on and off: The Cadense shoes for seniors are designed to be easy to put on and take off. This can be helpful for wearers who have arthritis or other difficulties that make it hard to deal with traditional laces and buckles.

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FAQ

Why do feet change size with age?

Feet do not actually shrink with age. But the perception that they do could result from weight changes or conditions that affect the feet.

How much can feet shrink as you age?

It is a myth that feet shrink with age. You may feel like they do, but that is an illusion. Scroll up to read our full post for more details.

At what age do feet typically start shrinking?

Feet do not really shrink due to age. So, you do not need to worry about it starting at a particular age.

Can foot exercises prevent shrinkage?

Foot exercises may help keep tendons and ligaments from loosening, and prevent weight gain. Both might help you to maintain the shape of your feet.

Posted by: Johannes Sauer

Johannes is the CEO and Co-Founder of Cadense and passionate about helping people with walking difficulties. Johannes is the CEO and Co-Founder of Cadense and passionate about helping people with walking difficulties. He was immediately drawn to the mission of the company because his cousin lost his lower leg in a tragic motorcycle accident a few years ago and is experiencing walking difficulties ever since. Johannes brings over a decade of experience in working for consumer product companies to Cadense. He holds an MBA from the University of Graz in Austria. Johannes lives with his family in Santa Barbara, CA.

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