The Top Rules For Choosing Shoes For Arthritic Feet

 

Arthritis will be a debilitating condition that affects the joints of your body, including your feet. It can make finding comfortable shoes a real challenge, especially if you're on your feet for long periods. When selecting the right pair of shoes for arthritic feet, following certain rules is important to help keep you pain-free and comfortable. In that blog post, they'll share the top rules for choosing shoes perfect for arthritic feet. With these guidelines, you'll be able to find shoes that will keep your feet feeling great all day long.

Check The Shape Of Your Shoes

When it comes to choosing shoes for degenerative joint disease feet, the shape of the shoe is crucial. Too narrow shoes can cause joint pressure, leading to discomfort and pain. On the other hand, shoes that are too wide can lead to instability, causing balance issues. It's important to find a shoe with the right fit without unnecessary pressure or looseness. A good rule of thumb is to choose shoes with a round or square toe box. These shapes allow for a natural movement of the toes without being constricting. Shoes that taper at the front can squeeze the toes together, causing discomfort. It's also important to consider the overall shape of the shoe. Shoes with a pointed toe can look stylish, but there are better choices for arthritic feet. Shoes with a wider profile provide more room for the foot to move without causing unnecessary pressure on the joints.

Consider The Materials

The materials of your shoes can play a huge role in the comfort and support they provide for your arthritic feet. First and foremost, it’s important to look for shoes made with breathable materials like leather or mesh to help prevent unwanted sweating and keep your feet dry. Shoes made with synthetic materials may not allow your feet to breathe and can lead to irritation and discomfort. Another material to look for is a soft and flexible sole, which can provide shock absorption and reduce the impact on your joints when you walk. Rubber and other similar materials will be ideal for that purpose. Also, shoes made with foam padding can provide extra cushioning and make walking more comfortable.

On the other hand, materials to avoid will be rigid and uncomfortable, such as hard plastics or metals. Shoes with these materials may put unnecessary pressure on your arthritic joints and cause additional discomfort. It’s essential to keep in mind that shoes made with comfortable and flexible materials are vital for individuals with arthritic feet. Take the time to consider the materials used in the shoes you purchase, and look for both comfortable and supportive options.

Go For A Shoe With A Wide Toe Box

Arthritis can make your feet more sensitive, leading to problems with rubbing or tightness in the toes. That's why it's crucial to choose shoes with a wide-toe box that provides ample room for your toes to move around freely. When shopping for shoes, be sure to look for ones with a rounded, spacious toe box that is not constricting. Shoes with narrow toe boxes will be very uncomfortable for people with arthritis, as they put additional pressure on the joints and can lead to pain and inflammation. Wide toe boxes also benefit people who suffer from other foot conditions, such as bunions or hammertoes. They allow these conditions to breathe and not be squeezed in uncomfortable shoes. As a general rule of thumb, shoes that provide a lot of wiggle room for your toes will reduce the chances of foot pain and discomfort and allow for more movement.

Avoid High Heels

High heels are fashionable, but they are terrible for arthritic feet. High heels place enormous stress on the joints in your feet, ankles, knees, and lower back, making them more vulnerable to pain and inflammation. The higher the heel, the worse the pressure and the more damage it can cause over time. When it comes to arthritic feet, the goal is to reduce pain, not increase it. High heels also put your balance off and can lead to falls, especially in seniors. That is why it's essential to avoid high heels altogether. Stick to shoes with a flat or low heel to minimize the stress on your feet. If you need some elevation, wear wedge heels, which distribute your weight more evenly than pointy stilettos. 

Opt For Closed-Toe Shoes

When it comes to choosing shoes for degenerative joint disease feet, it's important to consider the level of protection and support that they offer. Closed-toe shoes provide additional protection for your feet, shielding them from potential injury and minimizing the impact of everyday wear and tear. Open-toe shoes may seem more comfortable and stylish but they can harm arthritic feet. They expose your feet to the elements, increasing the risk of damage and pain. Closed-toe shoes offer more coverage, making them an ideal choice for those with arthritic feet. 

When selecting closed-toe shoes, look for ones made from breathable materials such as leather, suede, or mesh. These materials help to reduce moisture and promote airflow, preventing your feet from becoming sweaty and uncomfortable. Closed-toe shoes with adjustable straps or laces can also be beneficial as they provide a customized fit that adapts to your feet as they swell and change over time. 

Consider Arch Support

When choosing shoes for degenerative joint disease feet, it's important to consider the level of arch support the shoe offers. Arch support helps to distribute weight evenly across your feet and reduces pressure on your joints, which is particularly important if you have arthritis. There are various options for arch support, including built-in arch support in the shoe or inserts that will be added for extra support. It's important to look for shoes with good arch support if you plan on walking or standing for extended periods. Consider custom-made shoes with tailored arch support if you have particularly high arches. A podiatrist or orthopedic specialist can help you determine the best level of support for your needs.

Make Sure The Shoe Is Comfortable

When choosing shoes for degenerative joint disease feet, comfort should be a top priority. You want a shoe that provides cushioning, support, and flexibility while reducing pain or discomfort. Here are some tips to help you find a comfortable shoe:

• Take the time to try on shoes and walk around in them before making a purchase. That will give you a good idea of how they feel on your feet.
• Look for shoes with a soft and supportive insole. Memory foam and gel insoles are good options as they mold to the shape of your feet and provide additional support.
• Consider shoes with adjustable straps or laces, as they allow you to customize the shoe's fit and provide more support.
• Choose shoes made of breathable materials like leather or mesh, as that will help to prevent your feet from getting too hot and sweaty.
• If you have specific problem areas on your feet, look for shoes with extra padding or cushioning.

Go For A Shoe With A Good Grip

For people with arthritis, having a shoe with a good grip is essential. It helps to prevent slips, trips, and falls that could lead to injury. A shoe with a good grip ensures that your feet stay stable and supported, which can reduce stress and strain on your joints. That is especially important for those with arthritis, who may already have weakened joints more prone to injury. When shopping for shoes, make sure to look for those that have a non-slip sole. Rubber soles are a good option because they offer good traction on most surfaces, including wet and slippery ones. If you are looking for a dress shoe, opt for one with a leather sole that has been treated to improve traction. Also, avoid shoes with smooth soles as they are more likely to be slippery. Ensure that the shoe fits well to ensure maximum support and stability. If the shoe is too big or small, it can cause instability and increase the risk of slips and falls. Therefore, take time to try on different sizes and walk around in them to ensure they feel comfortable and supported.

Consider Custom-Made Shoes

If you have severe arthritis, custom-made shoes may be your best option. These shoes are designed to perfectly fit the contours of your feet, offering unmatched comfort and support. Custom-made shoes are especially beneficial if you have an unusual foot shape or size. With custom-made shoes, you can rest assured that you're getting the perfect fit to help alleviate your arthritis symptoms. While custom-made shoes may be more expensive than off-the-shelf options, the long-term benefits to your health and well-being make them a worthy investment. Consult with a specialist or podiatrist to ensure you're getting the right custom-made shoe for your unique needs.

Conclusion

Arthritis can cause pain and discomfort in the feet, but you can minimize the pain and enjoy your daily activities with the right pair of shoes. Following the rules discussed in that blog post, you can choose the perfect pair of shoes that provide the comfort, support, and flexibility you need to keep your feet healthy. Remember to always try on shoes and take the time to find the right fit and style for your individual needs. Taking care of your feet can reduce pain and live a happier, healthier life.