Finding the Right Shoes for Arthritis
We’ve reached the time of year when people are paying more attention to all the things they have to be thankful for. Gratitude is an attitude worth cultivating, and what time is better to start than now? One seemingly small thing worth being thankful for is good shoes for arthritis. Arthritic feet can hurt to move and use, restricting your mobility. The right shoes, however, can make a big difference for your foot comfort and help you stay on the go, even with aching joints.
Shoes have a huge impact on how your feet function. They can alter how your feet push off the ground and absorb shock or hard impacts. The right shoes offer support and protection so your lower limbs function better. This is especially important when you have arthritis and your joints are stiff and painful. The wrong shoes could potentially add to your foot pain and make arthritis issues worse.
So how do you find good shoes for arthritis? It’s not as difficult as you might think, once you know what to look for. Here are a few tips to help you find those “right” shoes:
Look for low heels – Heels above two inches put a lot of extra pressure on arches and the ball of the foot, which can exacerbate arthritis issues.
Test for foot room – Make sure you look for shoe styles that have plenty of room for your feet (particularly your toes) instead of squeezing or pinching them.
Select appropriate cushioning – Sole padding reduces hard impacts and pressure on your foot and ankle joints, making walking more comfortable, so super flat shoes aren’t good options.
Look for good support – Arch and heel support can help your feet distribute pressure and shock better, as well as maintain normal biomechanics. Look for shoes that have support in those areas, or will fit orthotics that support those places.
Finding the right shoes for your arthritis may take time, but it is worth the effort. Your footwear could be the difference between walking around comfortably and having to give up some of your hobbies or even independence. If you’re having trouble finding the best shoes for your arthritis, let our team at Gulf South Foot & Ankle, LLC help you. Contact our offices in Metairie or Covington for more information or to schedule a consultation today.