Well-fitted shoes are essential to the orthopedic health of all people, young and old. But proper shoes are especially important for those suffering from arthritis, which can turn any long walk a painful ordeal. So when fitting for a new pair of shoes, make sure that you know what features are most important for the continued, comfortable use of your precious feet. Read on to learn choose shoes for arthritic feet.
Instructions
1. Get the right size. Shoes should fit just snugly enough to prevent feet from sliding about. The shoes should be soft and roomy enough, however, to prevent aggravating your arthritis. You should be able to comfortably wiggle your toes. If one foot is slightly bigger than the other, buy shoes with the larger foot in mind. And shoes are actually best sized in evening, after a full day's worth of use have caused your feet to swell to their greatest average size.
2. Invest in good material. Spring for shoes made of high-quality leather, which will allow your feet to breath. Shoes for arthritic feet shouldn't need to be broken in--they should as comfortable as possible, as soon as possible. And ornamental touches like toe caps and decorative stitching should be kept to a minimum, to allow the shoe to flex as much as possible.
3. Pay attention to the sole. The soles should not only be light and flexible, but washable, and easily removed. In modern shoes, soles constructed out of moulded or microcellular rubbers--instead of the heavy leathers of yesteryear--are ideal. Soles should also be able to bend at all the right places, like from the base of the big toe to the base of the little toes.
4. Opt for shoes with laces, velcro or buckles, so that the shoes can expand in case of swelling--and by the same token, elastic laces and velcro are easy on arthritic fingers. Heels should raise no more than an inch off the ground. High heels and pointed shoes should be avoided. The heels should also be wide enough both to cushion the foot and to provide enough balance. If you can no longer point your toes, the laces should reach right down to the toes.
5. Exercise preventative care. Keep the skin of the foot clean and dry, using foot powder is desired. Maintain correct posture, and take foot baths a few times a week to prevent fatigue. Always consult your podiatrist for best select your footwear with arthritis in mind.
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