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Unique feet: discover your foot type and its perfect pointe shoe.

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Dancers come in all shapes and sizes. So do dancers' feet. Variations in foot type have two distinguishing factors: the arch, and the relative length of the toes. With arches, there are two extremes: high and low (in its most pronounced, flat feet). Your feet probably fall somewhere in between. For toe length, there are four different configurations: Grecian, Egyptian, Peasant, and Simian. So, what type of foot do you have, and what challenges does it pose for you? Dance Magazine spoke to medical professionals and dancers to get practical information about foot types.

Arch Type

HIGH-ARCH FOOT

This foot type has a beautifully curved point. However, the mid-foot typically is rigid, may lack a good plie, and does not easily absorb shock when running or landing from jumps. Also, it tends to be associated with "hammer toes," a condition where the toes remain partly flexed. This can cause bruising in the ball of the foot.

DOCTOR'S ADVICE Strengthening the small muscles in your foot is key, says Dr. Remy Ardizzone, a consultant with San Francisco Ballet. She recommends picking up marbles with your toes or placing a towel on the floor and scrunching it towards you. If you need more give in your plie, do exercises that stretch your calf muscles and Achilles tendon.

According to Dr. Thomas Novella, a consultant with New York City Ballet and American...

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