Mercent
Shoes
Socks / Hosiery
Foot Health Lower Body Health
Intimates / Apparel
Top Rated Shoes
Facebook Badge
 
Choosing the Right Orthotic Shoes for You
Opt for Orthotic Shoes to Help Alleviate Painful Foot Aches
 
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 orthotic shoes, however, can provide you with miles of comfort.

 
The Ideal Orthotic Shoe
 
Orthotic 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 orthotic shoes hold onto the foot, not the other way around. Adjustable orthotic shoes, like those with Velcro®, can be a great way to fit problem feet.

Orthotic shoes for diabetics and those with swollen feet should be quite roomy. Oxfords, for example, are good orthotic shoes that – with their added depth feature – can accommodate even the fifth toe. If you’re suffering from bunions, your orthotic shoes should have spandex stretch uppers.

Other features to consider in good orthotic 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.
  • Orthotic 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 orthotic 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 orthotic shoes with you.
 
Tips for Buying New Orthotic Shoes
 
1. If you need orthotic shoes, never go out to buy new them first thing in the morning. The feet swell as the day goes on, and your orthotic shoes need to accommodate this added size.

2. Always break in new orthotic shoes at home on carpeting.

3. Do not expect orthotic 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.

 
What to Buy: Purchasing Orthotic Shoes
 

Therapeutic orthotic shoes include:
Better dress orthotic shoe brands include:
Athletic orthotic shoe brands that come in different widths include:
  • Saucony Orthotic Shoes
  • Aetrex Orthotic Shoes
  • Etonic Orthotic Shoes


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.
 
 
 
 
 Sign up to receive emails about new products, exclusive offers & more     
VeriSign Secured Top 500 internet retailer HACKER SAFE certified sites prevent over 99.9% of hacker crime. BizRate.com customer certified Payment Options :
Visa, American Express, MasterCard, Discover, PayPal, Bill Me Later, Google Checkout