FAQs
What is the best shoe for plantar fasciitis?
There is no "best" shoe for plantar fasciitis. The types of shoes that generally help people with plantar fasciitis have a strong middle section and a mild rocking motion to the shoe. This helps support the foot in the arch area and allows the person to get through a heel-to-toe gait more easily. Selecting the right pair of shoes really depends on a variety of factors such as the shape of the feet, flexibility of certain joints, bio-mechanical factors, and environmental application. Having and trained Pedorthist help you select the proper footwear for your specfic needs and conditions can help alleviate many common foot pathologies including plantar fasciitis.
I have knee or back pain, how can changing my shoes help?
Many times, knee and back pain are derived from poor alignment that begins at our foundation. If our foundation if off, our whole body is out of alignment. Properly fitted shoes and inserts can help improve stability at the foundation of our bodies which in turn, creates a more aligned posture.
I'm a runner. How can properly fit shoes and/or arch supports increase my performance and prevent injury?
Along with proper stretching exercises and tailored training programs, properly fitted shoes and/or arch supports can prevent injury, improve performance, and make for a more comfortable run. Running shoes should generally fit longer than a normal shoes to avoid ingrown nails or other toe issues. Additionally, running shoes come in various categories such as neutral, stability, and motion control. The type of shoe that is most appropriate for you will depend your particular foot shape and running gait. A trained specialist can analyze your gait, foot shape, and current footwear then make recommendations for your specific needs.
Arch supports help absorb shock and control foot motion. Absorbing shock and reducing shear helps runners run longer with more bio-mechanical efficiency.
I have diabetes. Do I need to wear special shoes or socks?
Yes. It is always recommended that persons with diabetes always wear properly fitted footwear and hosiery. Whether a person has had complications with their feet or not, it is always best to take preventative steps to ensure proper foot health. Shoes with soft leather uppers and seamfree linings will help reduce friction. Properly fitted insloes will also increase foot temperature and evenly distribute pressure.
Cotton socks should be avoided at all times. They can absorb moisture and cause shearing problems in the diabetic foot. Synthetic blends engineered for the diabetic foot with seamless toes will help reduce shearing forces.
Will shoes or inserts help with my arthritis?
Shoes with good support and shock absorption will help reduce motion in joints and reduce pressure. Properly fitted inserts will also help reduce shock and control motion. Reduced joint motion and shock reduces the pain associated with arthritis.
I have trouble walking. Can you help me?
Yes! We have helped thousands live a better quality of life by helping them walk more. Depending on whether you have difficulties due to mobility issues or specific pathologies, our trained professionals can help select the proper footwear and inserts for your specific needs.
I have bunions. What can I do to prevent pain?
Shoes with wide toe boxes will help reduce pain by reducing the pressure placed on bunions from normally shaped footwear. Additionally, arch supports will help control foot motion and reduce pressure at that joint. Certain shoes, inserts, and off the shelf splints are specifically designed for bunions.
I stand on my feet all day at work. What can I do to help my feet?
This can be a much more painful condition than walking all day. Standing in one position forces pressure build up in the heel and forefoot areas. Shoes designed with mild rocker bottoms and inserts can help distribute that pressure while increasing circulation.