The right shoes protect, align, and cushion our feet as we go through daily routines and play sports. However, the wrong shoes may add to foot pain and poor foot function.
How can you know what shoes are best for your feet and lifestyle? Let us look at some foot problems people experience and discuss how to choose the right shoes.
Understanding Foot Pain?
Foot pain can be attributed to various factors. It can be due to everyday wear and tear from activities, such as running or standing, for extended periods or be a sign of medical conditions like:
- Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the connective tissue across the arch of the foot
- Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Stress fractures or tiny breaks from overuse (running, jumping)
- Heel spurs, which may be from plantar fasciitis or weight issues
- Fallen arches (flat feet)
- Overpronation (feet roll inward) or supination (feet roll outward)
Also, people suffer from foot pain because of muscle strain, foot deformities, such as bunions and hammer toes, and other problems. If you are experiencing foot pain, consult your orthopedic doctor immediately to determine the cause.
Once your orthopedic surgeon diagnoses the problem, you can work together to manage it. In many cases, good footwear helps prevent and relieve foot pain.
Footwear Options for Specific Conditions
Here are some footwear options for specific conditions.
Plantar Fasciitis
Shoes with excellent arch support and cushioning can be lifesavers for individuals with plantar fasciitis. Always look for brands that design shoes specifically for this condition, such as rocker soles that reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
Arthritis
Living with arthritis comes with its challenges, but choosing shoes does not have to be one. For people with arthritis, shoes with excellent cushioning, shock absorption, and a supportive midsole to comfort aching joints may help. Additionally, adjustable straps or laces can accommodate swelling and provide a customized fit.
Flat Feet
If your feet lack the arch most feet have, shoes offering robust arch support and motion control can help in maintaining correct foot alignment. Shoes labeled as “stability” or “motion control” can address this need, providing comfort and balance.
Heel Pain
Heel pain, common in individuals with plantar fasciitis or heel spurs, can be relieved with shoes designed with deep heel cups and extra cushioning in the heel area. Investing in such pairs can make a noticeable difference in your comfort levels.
Can the Right Shoe Prevent and Relieve Foot Pain?
Yes, proper footwear helps in reducing foot pain. The right shoes support your arches, stabilize foot motion, and cushion your entire foot, protecting you from injury and muscle strain.
For people with diabetes, proper footwear can help with problems such as diabetic neuropathy. This nerve damage leads to pain or even lack of sensation in the feet. Comfortable shoes that fit the feet properly will avoid damaging the pressure points or skin irritation.
What Are the Characteristics of Good Shoes?
Good shoes provide the following:
- Arch support, which is important to prevent or treat plantar fasciitis or flat feet
- Good cushioning, particularly in the heel and forefoot, for relief of arthritis symptoms and heel pain
- Laces or straps, which can be tightened or loosened to avoid or relieve painful swelling
- A wide toe box, which avoids pinching and poor range of motion in the feet
- Good motion control to correct supination or overpronation (rocker soles can correct the side-to-side motion of the feet)
What Should I Avoid When Buying Footwear?
Ensure you do not skimp on the cost of the shoes. The old saying–you get what you pay for–is true.
So, avoid buying cheap flip-flops, sneakers, and sandals, which wear out quickly, provide little support, and do not protect your feet and ankles.
Instead, choose quality materials, such as leather. Women should wear dress shoes with low heels–no skinny, ultra-high heels. These strain the forefoot, crush the toes, and limit the natural motion of the foot.
Soles should be non-slip to avoid painful falls. Plus, the soles should be hard enough to provide your feet enough support and traction. The right soles will avoid painful muscle strain.
Finally, get a professional to size your feet and fit your shoes. There should be about one-half inch of space between your biggest toes and the inside of the shoes. This is because extra space avoids cramping, discomfort, and deformities, such as bunions and hammertoes.
Treatment for Foot Pain in Dover, NJ
The orthopedic team at Orthopedic Associates of West Jersey (OAWJ) provides treatment for patients with acute and chronic foot conditions. Our highly trained and skilled orthopedic doctors can uncover the cause of your foot pain and develop a personalized treatment plan for you, considering your physical activity level, overall health, age, and other factors.
Our orthopedic surgeons can combine nonsurgical and surgical techniques to address the issues. If your shoes contribute to your foot pain, our doctor may recommend customized orthotics.
To schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic doctors to treat your foot pain in Dover, NJ, call our office today at (973) 989-0888 or use our appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
