When it comes to protecting the feet from injuries, one of the most important equipment that we have is shoes. They protect the wearer against punctures, cuts, scrapes, burns, and even frost bite. But shoes also act in another way; they alter the angles, walking pattern, and mechanics of feet.

According to Dr. Steven Gershman, DPM, shoes are like orthodontia for teeth. They have the potential to treat all ailments that may be present in your feet as well as enhance their functionality. This is especially important when you realize the difference of feet description in shoes wearing societies and those in shoeless societies. Without shoes, toes are separated in a way that resembles a hand.

What is an Orthopedic Shoe?

Orthopedic shoes are designed to help reduce foot, ankle, leg, and lower back pain, as well as decrease the amount of pressure on feet and ankles. There are differences between orthopedic shoes and normal shoes because the orthopedic shoes are specially designed to accommodate foot shape and size, and sometimes foot problems. They are meant to provide comfort and draw pain from different foot complications like plantar fasciitis, bunion, and flat feet.

Orthopedic shoes are available in various designs that vary from casual shoes reminiscent of sneakers to formal dress shoes, and are worn depending on the intended use and surface of the intended activity. The following are some of the design elements that are exclusive to orthopedic shoes; They have soft cushioning, supportive arches; they are broader at the front part; and have insoles that can be transfers.

When you wear orthopedic shoes, you can feel comfortable and avoid getting additional foot issues in the future. They are very supportive and comfortable that is why people who stand for a long time or experience some physical activities are advised to have/access them.

What Are the Benefits of Orthopedic Shoes?

Looking for shoes that offer the comfort of your feet, support and protection, then orthopedic shoes can do the job. These shoes are made to suit individuals having problems with their feet; the problems include plantar fascia, flat feet, and bunions. Orthopedic shoes are beneficial in many ways and can assist in enhancing foot health and your general health.

Arch Support

One of the most important features of orthopedic shoes includes the support of the arch of the foot. The kind of orthotic insoles used in these shoes is meant to give good arch support, therefore holding the feet from pronating which causes foot and heel pain. The arch support also plays its role in preventing pressure that is usually experienced at the rear of shoe and around the toes by distributing a significant amount of pressure to the arch of the foot. It can relieve stress on the knees, hips and the lower back in addition to helping out with the way the feet and legs are positioned.

Variety of Widths

Orthopedic shoes come in a variety of widths to ensure a best fit depending on the foot size and problems. Orthopedic shoes come in medium, wide, extra-wide, narrow and extra-extra-wide sizes, unlike many shoes are made for average sizes and usually medium width. This feature can just be useful in attempts to provide a better fit that may be useful for people who have wide feet.

Extra Depth

Orthopedic shoes are constructed on a special shoe that offers extra depth in order to possibly accommodate thick-sold insoles. This feature also provides a freedom fitting without any compression on the foot area of the shoe. If you have a liking for thick cushioned socks that demand extra room this is a plus for you.

Wide Toe Box

Orthopedic shoes have a wide toe box that helps in relieving pressure located on the bunion and hammertoe deformity and extra space for the toes. This will be very useful to reduce pain and inconvenience associated with these foot conditions, plus additional margin of space for toes to spread out.

Protective Interior

Orthopedic shoes are generally designed with a soft and smooth lining the provides minimal pressue on the skin of the foot. Some shoes do not have seem at all hence do not causeany friction to the sensitive feet. It can be useful for offering the necessary treat and protection for diabetics, neuropathy and other foot related diseases.

Stretchable Uppers

Orthopedic shoes are designed having a stretch upper design that helps the upper part of the shoes stretches and conforms to the shape of the feet. This feature relieves pressure on the bunions and hammertoes, as well as breaks pressure points on the foot. Its ergonomic nature means that if your feet become achy during a day, and they look like they may be one size smaller in the evening, then the stretch itself changes to make it a feeling as if it was purchased two different shoe sizes.

Special Soles

Orthopedic shoes have lightweight soles and a mild rocker bottom design that softens impacts and helps facilitate foot motion. The wide sole design also provides good stability whilst in motion especially walking around. These features can actually enhance endeavours to move more efficiently as well as to protect and reduce discomfort in areas including heels, feet, knee, hips and the lumbar region..

When Should You Wear Orthopedic Shoes?

Orthopedic shoes refer to those that are made to bear extra weight, have insoles and set up the feet in a particular biomechanical way. Hammertoes, bunions, flat feet, arthritis, overpronation, painful heels, plantar fasciitis, and any other disorder or pain related to feet will benefit from using orthopedic shoes. They help lessen or eradicate discomfort, and help one avoid getting other foot complications in the future.

However, if you suffer from foot problems, you should not consider yourself exempt from wearing the orthopedic shoes since it will also have its good effects on an individual. These shoes are said to re-align the feet, support and add a layer of cushioning – all invaluable in preventing future foot issues. It is wise to wear the orthopedic shoes for a preventive measures for your feet to be healthy and free from pains..

In summary, orthopedic shoes have many benefits than the regular ones. They can reduce pain, increase the ability to move and balance, fit and give basic safeguard to those with a variety of foot problems. If you want shoes that enable you to avail comfort, support and even protect your feet from further strain then you might opt for orthopedic shoes.