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Choosing the Right Orthopaedic Shoes for You
Opt for Orthopaedic Shoes to Help Alleviate Painful Foot Aches |
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If you have problem feet, your shoes could be the reason why, as many ill-fitting, poorly designed shoes contribute to such conditions as bunions, corns and calluses and can irritate sensitive, diabetic or swollen feet. Cushioned, roomy orthopaedic shoes, however, can provide you with miles of comfort.
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| The Ideal Orthopaedic Shoe |
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Orthopaedic shoes should have the following characteristics:
- A firm heel counter
- A wide enough toe box to accommodate toes without pinching them
- A semi-rigid or rigid shank
- A removable inner sole
- A long vamp
- A heel measuring between ¾ - 1½ inches
Remember: Good orthopaedic shoes hold onto the foot, not the other way around. Adjustable orthopaedic shoes, like those with Velcro®, can be a great way to fit problem feet.
Orthopaedic shoes for diabetics and those with swollen feet should be quite roomy. Oxfords, for example, are good orthopaedic shoes that – with their added depth feature – can accommodate even the fifth toe. If you’re suffering from bunions, your orthopaedic shoes should have spandex stretch uppers.
Other features to consider in good orthopaedic shoes include:
- A padded collar and tongue to protect sensitive areas, reduce irritation and secure the fit.
- A rubber outsole to aid with slip resistance.
- Interchangeable removable insoles to aid with perspiration problems and accommodate any orthotic devices.
- Orthopaedic shoes with Velcro® to provide good closure.
- A plastizote foam lining that molds to the foot to reduce pressure points and provide customized comfort and protection.
- A firm compression EVA midsole.
- A flared outsole to enhance foot stability.
- A polyurethane rocker sole to reduce ball-of-foot pain and absorb shock.
- Breathable leather upper.
If you have heel pain and need orthopaedic shoes to help relieve plantar fasciitis pain, and over-the-counter arch supports did not help alleviate your symptoms, visit a podiatrist to be fitted for custom orthotics. And don’t forget to bring your good orthopaedic shoes with you. |
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| Tips for Buying New Orthopaedic Shoes |
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1. If you need orthopaedic shoes, never go out to buy new them first thing in the morning. The feet swell as the day goes on, and your orthopaedic shoes need to accommodate this added size.
2. Always break in new orthopaedic shoes at home on carpeting.
3. Do not expect orthopaedic shoes to stretch. If the shoe does not fit, do not wear it. You should have a thumb-length space at the toe end of the shoe beyond the longest toe.
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| What to Buy: Purchasing Orthopaedic Shoes |
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Therapeutic orthopaedic shoes include:
- Advance
- Drew
- Arcopedico
- Propet
- Softspots
Better dress orthopaedic shoe brands include:
- Kumfs
- Softspots
- Arcopedico
- Hush Puppies
- Munro
Athletic orthopaedic shoe brands that come in different widths include:
- Saucony
- Brooks
- New Balance
Information on foot, leg and lower body health conditions provided by The Podiatry Institute, dedicated to advancing the standard of care in podiatric medicine and its effects on muscoskeletal health. |
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