PASADENA, CALIFORNIA - It doesn't matter where you have pinches or aches –whether in your back, knee or foot - orthopedic shoes can alleviate pain quickly. The right shoe orthotic can also provide you with more than relief. It can prevent foot deformities, injuries and, in some cases, correct them.
Cesar Lua, a certified pedorthist and owner of Novis Shoes, which specializes in shoe lifts, inserts and custom orthopedic footwear, explains the basic characteristics that are important for quality orthopedic shoes.
1- Broad and deep toe box: Blisters, bunions, hammertoe, claw toe, corns and calluses are just a few of the foot deformities that are caused by toe boxes that are too narrow or too shallow.
"Cramming your toes into small boxes is simply not worth the residual consequences," said the shoe inserts professional. "Look for shoes that allow your toes to spread out comfortably with a little room to spare. Stick with round or square boxes and avoid pointy shoes for maximum comfort."
2- Removable insoles: Shoes that allow for the insoles to be removed are ideal for people who suffer from swollen feet. They also give you the ability to insert custom insoles if you have them. Lastly, they are great to have if your shoes get wet because you can dry them easily and reduce the risk of developing a bacterial or fungal infection.
"Insoles are made from many materials and come in a variety of arch heights," said Lua. "I recommend purchasing or having an insert made that supports the type of pain you feel. Once you are satisfied you can rotate the insoles, depending on the shoes you are wearing that day, which saves a lot of time and money."
3- Easy fit fastenings: Velcro fastenings on shoes are preferred over shoelaces, as the lace can provide pressure points and uneven support around the shoe tongue.
4- Seamless inside: Patients with diabetes who are susceptible to foot injuries should look for a shoe with no projections or areas capable of causing rubbing or abrasion on the delicate skin of the foot.
5- Heel Support: This area should be firm and supportive, and difficult to bend or compress with the hands, which is ideal for people who over-pronate.
Good additions to orthopedic shoes are foot or ankle orthotics, also referred to as orthopedic inserts, which support, align or protect the feet and ankles. "Orthotics solve many problems for people and they can be as easy as picking them up from the drugstore or as intricate as having them custom-made by a podiatrist," said Lua.
6- Rigid orthotics: Designed to control or change the way the foot functions. This type of orthotic is typically made from plastic or carbon fiber and is fabricated from a plaster mold of the patient's foot. Primarily used for walking or dress shoes, the orthotic normally extends along the sole of the heel to the ball or toes of the foot. This device is long-lasting, will not lose its shape and is difficult to break.
7- Soft orthotics: Generally constructed of soft, compressible materials and may be molded by the action of the foot walking or fashioned over a plaster impression of the foot. This device absorbs shock, increases balance and takes pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. Worn against the sole of the foot, extending from the heel to the ball of the foot to include the toes, this insert will need to be replaced or refurbished after extensive wear. Used to treat plantar fasciitis, runner's knee, high arches and for the care of a diabetic foot.
8- Semi rigid orthotics: This device is ideal for athletes or for people who exert above-average amounts of stress on the bones of their feet. They are usually crafted to support the activity the athlete will partake in. Constructed by alternating layers of soft material, reinforced with more rigid materials.
"Always consult with a podiatrist before adding an orthotic to your shoe, as they can do as much harm as good," said Lua. "Be sure to wear shoes that work well with your orthotics and if you experience any new pain after wearing orthopedic shoes or orthotics, follow-up with your doctor to evaluate the function of your devices."
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