Understanding the cause of a collapsed heel collar
If you have ever experienced a collapsed heel collar, then you know how uncomfortable it can be. It can cause irritation, blisters, and foot pain. The heel collar is the part of the shoe that surrounds the back of your ankle. It is designed to provide support, stability, and comfort to your foot when walking or running. A collapsed heel collar occurs when the back of the shoe does not hold its shape, causing it to collapse inward. The condition can be caused by a variety of factors including wear and tear, foot shape, incorrect sizing or poorly made shoes.
The most common cause of a collapsed heel collar is wear and tear. Over time, the materials used in the construction of the shoe can break down and lose their integrity. As a result, the back of the shoe may not hold its shape and can collapse inward. This can happen with any type of shoe, but it is especially common in running shoes, which are subject to a lot of wear and tear.
Foot shape is another factor that can contribute to a collapsed heel collar. Some people have narrow or low-volume feet, which means that their heels may not fill out the back of the shoe as well as someone with wider feet. When this happens, the back of the shoe can collapse inward, causing discomfort and irritation.
Incorrect sizing is also a common cause of a collapsed heel collar. If your shoes are too big or too small, the back of the shoe may not fit properly. When this happens, the heel collar can collapse inward, causing irritation and pain. It is important to ensure that you get the correct size when purchasing shoes.
Poorly made shoes can also contribute to a collapsed heel collar. If the materials used in the construction of the shoe are not of high quality, they may break down quickly, causing the shoe to lose its shape. This can lead to a collapsed heel collar and discomfort.
In summary, a collapsed heel collar can be caused by wear and tear, foot shape, incorrect sizing or poorly made shoes. To prevent this condition, it is important to choose shoes that fit properly and are made of high-quality materials. If you do experience a collapsed heel collar, there are a variety of remedies available that can help to alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with this condition.
Tools needed to fix a collapsed heel collar
Fixing a collapsed heel collar on a shoe is a simple process, and it does not need any specialized tools. Some of the essential tools that you may need include:
- Adhesive: The adhesive is the essential tool you need to fix a collapsed heel collar. You can use any adhesive that you have at home provided that it can bond with the material of the shoe. Most people prefer to use a strong adhesive designed for use with shoes. However, you should avoid using weak adhesives such as office glue or basic glues, as they may not hold the collar in place.
- Clamp: A clamp will help hold the heel collar in place while the adhesive dries. If you don’t have a clamp, you can use heavy objects such as books, weights, or even a brick to hold the collar in place. However, a clamp is more secure and effective.
- Clean Cloth: You need a clean cloth to wipe off any excess adhesive. You may also use the cloth to apply the adhesive if you don’t have a brush or spatula.
- Brush: A brush or spatula is not necessary, but it makes applying the adhesive easier. Additionally, it ensures that the adhesive is evenly spread over the surface of the heel collar.
- Scissors: Scissors may be necessary if the heel collar is too long or too wide. You need to trim it to the appropriate size before you attach it to the shoe.
It’s worth noting that you may not need all of the tools mentioned above. You can get away with using only the adhesive and patience. However, if you want to do a perfect job, it’s advisable to use all the tools that are available to you.
Below are some tips on how to fix a collapsed heel collar:
- Clean the affected area: You need to clean the surface of the shoe where the heel collar will be attached. Use a clean cloth and some warm soapy water to clean off any dirt or debris. Allow the surface to dry naturally.
- Prepare the heel collar: If the heel collar is too long or too wide, trim it using a pair of scissors. Ensure that it fits perfectly on the back of the shoe. If the collar has already disintegrated, you may need to use a replacement collar.
- Apply the adhesive: Spread the adhesive evenly on the surface of the shoe where the heel collar will be attached. Make sure you apply enough adhesive for the collar to stick firmly. Use a brush or spatula to spread the adhesive evenly if you have one. If you don’t have a brush, use a clean cloth to apply the adhesive.
- Attach the collar: Place the heel collar on the shoe and press it firmly onto the adhesive. Make sure it’s well aligned with the back of the shoe. If possible, use a clamp to hold it in place until the adhesive dries. If you don’t have a clamp, use heavy objects such as books to hold it down. Allow the adhesive to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Remove any excess adhesive: Once the adhesive has dried, use a clean cloth to wipe off any excess adhesive that may have oozed out around the edge of the heel collar.
In conclusion, fixing a collapsed heel collar is not a complicated process. All you need are a few essential tools, some patience, and the instructions above, and you can have your shoe looking brand new in no time. Remember to use a strong adhesive for the best results, and make sure you follow all the instructions indicated on the package.
The Problem: Collapsed Heel Collar
A collapsed heel collar in shoes is a common issue for people who walk or stand for long hours. If you wear the same sneakers or shoes regularly, the back of the shoe’s collar may compress, causing it to collapse. A collapsed heel collar can cause discomfort, blisters, or even injuries to your feet. In this article, we’ll show you how to fix a collapsed heel collar on your shoes in a few easy steps.
Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing a Collapsed Heel Collar
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to fix a collapsed heel collar in your shoes:
Step 1: Collect the Supplies You’ll Need
The first step is to collect all the supplies you need to repair your shoe’s heel collar. You’ll need a shoe repair kit, which includes glue, a brush, and a piece of fabric, scissors, cotton balls, and some water. You can get a shoe repair kit from any shoe store or online.
Step 2: Detach the Insole
You can use a shoe horn to remove the insole of the shoe from the back. Detaching the insole allows you to see the foam or padding inside the heel collar. This padding acts as a cushion and can compress over time. Therefore, removing the insole will give you better access to the heel collar’s interior.
Step 3: Insert the Cloth Piece
Take a piece of cloth or foam of the same thickness as the padding and cut it to fit the inside of the heel collar. Wet the cloth and squeeze the water out. This will make it easier to insert the fabric/foam into the heel collar. Using a butter knife or any other tool, insert the cloth between the shoe’s padding and inner lining. Carefully push the cloth inside to fill the gap left by the compressed padding. Be cautious not to overstuff the heel collar with cloth because it may cause discomfort to your feet and throw off the balance of your shoes.
This step requires extra detail because inserting a cloth piece inside the heel collar is the most critical step in fixing the collapsed heel collar. There are various materials you can use to fill in the gap caused by the collapsed padding, including fabric scraps, foam, or even felt. While choosing the right material, consider the thickness, durability, and comfort. Once you have the appropriate fabric, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Cut the fabric to fit the inside of the heel collar. The fabric pieces should be slightly smaller than the inside of the heel collar. You don’t want it to be too big that it causes discomfort for your feet.
- Step 2: Wet the fabric with water slightly. The wet fabric will become more malleable, and it’ll be easier to push into the heel collar.
- Step 3: If you find it hard to insert the fabric, you could use a butter knife, chopstick, or any other long objects to push the material inside the heel collar. Be careful not to push too hard because it may damage the heel collar’s lining. Push the fabric until it sits comfortably between the padding and lining of the heel collar.
- Step 4: Check if the fabric has filled the gap and levelled the heel collar. If it’s not adequately filled, repeat the above steps until you achieve the desired level of padding.
Step 4: Wait for the Shoe to Dry
Once you have inserted the cloth or foam into the heel collar, you need to wait for the shoe to dry. It’s advisable to let the shoe dry for 24 hours before wearing it again. If you wear the shoe while it’s still wet, it can cause further damage to the heel collar.
Step 5: Reattach the Insole
Now that the shoe is dry, reattach the insole by pressing it back in place. You can use a shoe horn to ensure that the insole fits snuggly.
Congratulations! You have successfully fixed the collapsed heel collar in your shoe. You can now enjoy comfortable shoes without discomfort or blisters.
Tips to prevent future heel collar collapse
Dealing with heel collar collapse can be frustrating, especially when it happens on your favorite pair of shoes. Therefore, it’s essential to take measures that can help prevent it from happening in the future. Here are some tips to keep your shoes in excellent condition:
1. Choose the right size
One of the main causes of heel collar collapse is wearing the wrong size of shoes. Wearing shoes that are too big or too small can put unnecessary pressure on the collar, causing it to collapse over time. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose shoes that fit your feet correctly. Make sure to measure your feet before buying shoes, and if you are not sure about your size, try shoes on before buying them.
2. Invest in high-quality shoes
If you often experience heel collar collapse, it’s time to invest in high-quality shoes. Cheap shoes are often made with low-quality materials that wear out quickly, leading to heel collar collapse. On the other hand, high-quality shoes are made with durable materials that can withstand repeated wear and tear.
3. Break in new shoes gradually
Wearing new shoes for extended periods can put unnecessary pressure on the heel collar, causing it to collapse. Therefore, it’s essential to break in new shoes gradually. Wear your new shoes for a few hours a day, and gradually increase the time you spend wearing them. This helps to distribute pressure evenly on the collar, preventing it from collapsing.
4. Use shoe inserts
Using shoe inserts is an effective way to prevent heel collar collapse. Inserts can provide extra cushioning and support to the collar area, reducing pressure on it. There are different types of shoe inserts, including gel inserts, foam inserts, and heel cups. You can choose the type that works best for you depending on your needs.
Gel inserts: These are soft and provide excellent cushioning to the collar area. They are ideal for individuals who spend long hours walking or standing on hard surfaces.
Foam inserts: These are lightweight and provide excellent support to the arch and heel area. They are ideal for individuals with flat feet or those who need extra arch support.
Heel cups: These are firm and provide excellent support to the heel area. They are ideal for individuals with heel pain and those who need extra shock absorption.
5. Store your shoes correctly
Storing your shoes correctly is essential if you want to prevent heel collar collapse. Avoid storing your shoes in damp areas, as this can cause the materials to weaken and collapse over time. Instead, store your shoes in a dry place and avoid stacking them on top of each other, as this can cause pressure on the heel collar area.
Conclusion
Heel collar collapse can be frustrating, but taking measures to prevent it from happening can help prolong the life of your shoes. Choosing the right size, investing in high-quality shoes, breaking in new shoes gradually, using shoe inserts, and storing your shoes correctly are practical tips that can help prevent heel collar collapse.
When to Seek Professional Help for a Severely Collapsed Heel Collar
If you have tried all the possible home remedies to fix a collapsed heel collar but have not seen any improvement, it might be time to seek professional treatment. A severely collapsed heel collar is a serious problem that can cause extreme discomfort and even lead to long term injuries. Some of the situations when you may need to see a podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon are:
1. Persistent Pain: If the heel collar collapse is causing you persistent pain, especially while walking or performing any physical activity, it could be an indication of a severe condition that requires medical attention. Ignoring the pain and continuing with the activities that cause discomfort can lead to further damage and make the recovery process longer and more complicated.
2. Difficulty in Walking: If you find it difficult to walk normally because of a collapsed heel collar, you should consider seeing a specialist. Difficulty in walking can affect your daily life, making it challenging to perform basic tasks such as shopping, going to work, or even taking a walk. A professional can help you diagnose the cause of the problem and devise a treatment plan that can restore your mobility.
3. Swelling and Inflammation: A collapsed heel collar can cause swelling, redness, and inflammation. If the swelling persists, it may indicate a more severe condition that requires medical attention. In some cases, the swelling could be a sign of an infection that needs immediate treatment. A qualified podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon can help you determine the cause of the swelling and provide an appropriate treatment plan.
4. Clicking or Grinding Sound: Clicking or grinding sounds in the heel area can be a sign of bone-on-bone rubbing, which can cause long-term wear and tear on the joint. Continued use of the foot can further damage the affected area, leading to more severe complications. A professional can help diagnose the underlying problem and stop it from progressing to a more severe condition.
5. Worsening Condition: If your conditions are not improving despite trying various home remedies, it may be a sign of the problem getting worse. Seeking professional assistance at this stage can help prevent long-term damage and complications. A specialist can devise a comprehensive treatment plan that can help restore your foot to its natural state in the shortest possible time.
No matter how severe your collapsed heel collar is, seeking professional help is always recommended. A specialist can diagnose the root cause of the problem and provide an accurate diagnosis, preventing complications from developing. Don’t wait till it’s too late, schedule an appointment with a qualified podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon today!
