How Shoes Impact Gout Symptoms and Footwear for Gout Relief

How Shoes Impact Gout Symptoms and Managing Footwear with Gout

Gout is an extremely painful form of inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid levels in the bloodstream. This buildup of uric acid leads to needle-like crystal deposits in the joints, most often occurring in the big toe. Selecting proper footwear can help reduce gout pain during flares and prevent future attacks.

The Link Between Gout and Shoes

During gout attacks, the feet tend to be hot, red, swollen and tender. Unfortunately, shoes rubbing on the affected joints can intensify the pain. In addition, poorly fitted shoes that cramp toes can also trigger future gout attacks.

Since high heel shoes shift weight forward and cramp toes, they are notorious gout flare triggers for women. Tight shoes that constrict blood flow can also elicit attacks. Therefore, proper footwear is imperative for gout management.

Features of Gout Friendly Shoe Styles

The best shoes for gout relief share the following characteristics:

• Roomy toe box allowing toes to move freely without rubbing or irritation
• Breathable and flexible materials
• Extra depth and adjustable closures to accommodate foot swelling
• Cushioned insole providing shock absorption and comfort
• Low heels preferably less than 1 inch
• Lightweight construction to avoid extra pressure

Top Picks for Gout Shoes

When shopping for gout friendly footwear, look for options like:

Orthopedic Walking Shoes

Brands like New Balance, Saucony, Brooks, and ASICS offer special orthopedic walking shoes perfect for gout suffers. These shoes have removable insoles for accommodation orthotics, shock absorption, and breathability.

Therapeutic Footwear

Companies like Orthofeet, Drew, and Vionic produce therapeutic shoes with extra depth, adjustable closures, and biomechanical footbeds to cradle painful feet.

Sandals

Supportive athletic slide sandals like those from Teva, Keen, and Chaco help keep pressure off the toes while allowing room for bandages. Their straps also accommodate swelling.

Slippers

During a gout flare, open back slippers in soft fabrics can cradle the foot without squeezing tender joints. Acorn and Vionic brands make excellent slippers for men and women managing gout.

Flip Flops

Basic rubber flip flops like Reef or Rainbow Sandals feature simple toe posts instead of restrictive toe straps. They give toes plenty breathing room while providing protection outdoors.

Custom Orthotics

For those with chronic gout who need custom support, visiting a podiatrist for custom orthotic inserts can provide relief by supporting the feet biomechanically.

Tips for Managing Shoes During a Gout Flare

Coping with gout shoes when attacks strike involves both at home care and working with medical professionals.

Treating Gout Flare Ups

When a gout flare first presents, the priority is reducing swelling and pain. Recommendations include:

• Rest - Get off your feet until swelling diminishes.
• Elevate Feet - Prop up feet above heart level to reduce pooling fluids.
• Ice Application - Apply ice wrapped in cloth to painful joints for 20 mins several times per day.
• Compression - Lightly wrap a bandage around the foot, leaving toes exposed.
• Medications - Take doctor approved NSAIDS or steroids to relieve gout inflammation.

Wearing Shoes During Flares

For managing footwear during gout attacks, focus on accommodating bandages, swelling, and discomfort:

• Wear open-toed sandals or adjustable Velcro close slippers.
• Look for soft, breathable uppers without irritating seams.
• Use inserts or orthotics to support painful joints.
• Select shoes offering plenty of depth and width for swelling.
• Consider wearing shoes 1⁄2 size larger than usual if top of foot flares.

Preventing Gout Through Proper Footwear

Being consistent with gout management shoes helps lower risks of attacks returning frequently. Ideas include:

• Wear supportive, low heel shoes daily replacing every 6-12 months.
• Add cushioned orthotic inserts to shoes if needed.
• Shop for shoes later in the day when feet are most swollen.
• See a podiatrist yearly for foot pain issues.

Alternative Gout Shoe Options

For those struggling to find comfortable footwear for their gout, exploring specialty medical shoes can provide relief. Options to discuss with your doctor include:

Cast Shoes or Walkers

If gout causes fractures or joint damage, a cast shoe with a rocker bottom can immobilize the foot while remaining removable for wound care. These provide protection when bedrest is not possible.

Post-Op Shoes

Following surgeries for gout-damaged joints like bunionectomies, special medical shoes are needed during recovery. Post-op shoes have a rigid sole and lots of cushioning to protect the foot.

Custom Molded Shoes

For those disabled with chronic gout, having shoes custom crafted to match the exact shape of the feet can eliminate pressure points. While expensive, they provide the ultimate comfort.

When to See a Doctor

If gout flares last longer than a few days or impact your daily functioning, seeking medical care can provide further relief. Doctors may administer stronger anti-inflammatory drugs, provide pain medication, or drain fluid from joints to help you resume normal activities.

A podiatrist can also evaluate your gait and prescribe custom orthotics if needed to prevent future flares. Surgery is a last resort option for those with recurrent attacks causing joint damage.

The Takeaway

Selecting proper footwear and understanding how to manage shoes during gout flares makes a significant difference in managing symptoms. Supportive, roomy shoes with cushioned inserts help prevent attacks while open-toe post-op shoes, sandals or slippers accommodate feet when they occur.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.