As a podiatrist with over a decade of experience, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of foot anatomy, how feet change over time, and what can be done to maintain their health.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that the human foot is a complex structure composed of 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than a hundred muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It plays a crucial role in supporting the body's weight, providing balance, and facilitating movement.

Now, addressing the concern about whether feet can grow, or more accurately, whether they can change in size, the answer is yes, to an extent. Several factors can influence the size and shape of the feet over time:


1. Aging: As people age, particularly after the age of 40, it is not uncommon for feet to increase in size. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including the natural aging process of the body's tissues, changes in the structure of the foot, and weight gain. It is suggested that some individuals may gain about half a shoe size every 10 years.


2. Changes in the Arch: The arch of the foot is a critical component that provides support and helps in shock absorption. Over time, the tendons and ligaments that support the arch can lose their elasticity. This loss can lead to a flattening of the arch, which may cause the foot to spread out and appear larger.


3. Weight Changes: An increase in body weight can put additional pressure on the feet, leading to a stretching of the ligaments and potentially causing the feet to spread and increase in size.


4. Injury or Illness: Certain injuries or medical conditions can also affect the size and shape of the feet. For example, an injury that affects the bones or joints of the foot can lead to changes in its structure.


5. Pregnancy: During pregnancy, hormonal changes can cause the body to retain water, which may lead to swelling in the feet. This swelling can be temporary, but in some cases, it can result in a permanent increase in foot size.


6. Wearing Inappropriate Footwear: Wearing shoes that are too tight or do not provide proper support can also lead to changes in the foot's structure over time.

To maintain foot health and potentially mitigate some of the changes that can occur, it is recommended to:

- Wear Properly Fitted Shoes: Shoes should be comfortable and provide adequate support. They should also allow for some expansion as feet can swell throughout the day.

- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Keeping your weight within a healthy range can reduce the stress on your feet.

- Exercise Regularly: Strengthening the muscles and tendons of the feet can help maintain their structure and function.

- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration can help maintain the elasticity of the tissues in the feet.

- Seek Professional Advice: If you notice significant changes in your feet or experience pain, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist.

In conclusion, while it is true that feet can change in size and shape over time due to various factors, there are steps that can be taken to maintain their health and potentially slow down these changes. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your feet.

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A. Feet do get bigger over decades of pounding. Some people over the age of 40 can gain half a shoe size every 10 years. ... Feet flatten out because the supporting tendons and ligaments lose their elasticity. As the tendon along the length of the sole elongates, the arch lowers.Jun 24, 2009read more >>