Best Supportive Shoes for Arthritic Feet Pain Relief

Understanding Arthritic Feet and Finding the Right Shoes

Arthritis in the feet can make even the simplest activities painful. Choosing the wrong footwear can exacerbate discomfort, while the right shoes can provide much-needed support, stability, and relief. This guide will help you understand the unique needs of arthritic feet and discover the best shoes to manage symptoms.

How Arthritis Affects the Feet

Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis can all impact the joints and structures of the feet. Common symptoms include:

• Pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints
• Bone spurs and bunions
• Reduced flexibility and range of motion
• Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods

These effects place extra pressure on feet already strained by body weight and activity. Supportive, cushioned shoes are vital for easing discomfort.

Features of Arthritis-Friendly Shoes

The best shoes for arthritic feet share several important features:

• Cushioning - Padded insoles and midsoles soften impact.
• Support - Shoes should bend in the toe area but remain firm at the back to stabilize walking.
• Comfortable Fit - Roomier toe boxes accommodate bunions and swelling.
• Easy to Put On/Take Off - Slip-on styles with stretchy material or velcro closures simplify use.
• Lightweight - Lighter shoes strain joints less.
• Flexible Soles - Soles should bend where feet bend naturally.
• Proper Alignment - Shoes should provide adequate arch support.
• Traction - Textured soles prevent slips and falls.

The Best Shoe Styles for Arthritic Feet

With the right features in mind, these shoe styles offer the best mix of comfort and support:

Walking Shoes

Walking shoes provide maximum shock absorption and stability with their snug midsoles and firm heel counters. Look for cushioned insoles to soften the blow further. Lightweight mesh uppers add breathability as well.

Running Shoes

Running shoes offer similar benefits to walking shoes but with more flexibility to accommodate the rolling motion of feet during activity. Prioritize shock absorption and arch support from brands like Brooks, New Balance, and Asics.

Therapeutic Shoes

Some companies now produce shoes specifically designed to alleviate arthritis pain. These therapeutic shoes have removable insoles for custom orthotics, extra depth in the toe box for swelling and bunions, and adjustability features like velcro or slip-on closures. Popular brands include Orthofeet, Drew Shoe, and Vionix.

Slippers

Supportive slippers allow feet to rest in cushioned comfort without pressure from laces or straps. Look for a slip-resistant sole for safety. Sheepskin, microfiber, and memory foam all make excellent cushioning materials.

Sandals

During warmer weather, sandals can give feet room to swell freely. Prioritize arch support, cushioned footbeds, and adjustable or stretchy straps that won't chafe swollen joints. Brands like Vionic and Orthaheel design orthotic-friendly, podiatrist-approved sandals.

Shoe Features to Avoid

Steer clear of shoes with these drawbacks:

• Little to no cushioning or arch/ankle support
• Tight toe box that cramps toes
• Thin, unpadded insole
• Heavy weight that strains feet
• Inflexible sole that resists natural foot motion
• High heels or uneven sole that alters posture/gait
• Irritating seams, straps, or closures

Types that often exhibit these issues include ballet flats, cheap flip-flops, tall boots, and pointed-toe pumps.

Tips for Finding the Best Arthritis Shoes

Consider this advice for picking optimal footwear:

• Shop later in the day when feet are most swollen
• Bring custom orthotics to test shoes
• Try both shoes and walk around the store
• Ensure a finger’s width of space ahead of toes
• Choose adjustable/stretchy closures like velcro and elastic
• Check cushioning by pressing on insoles
• Analyze arch and ankle support
• Consider custom-made orthopedic shoes for severe issues

Frequently Asked Questions

Wondering if orthotics will fit? Unsure if walking shoes work for running? Get answers to these and other common questions about the best shoes for arthritic feet.

Are expensive shoes better for arthritis?

Not necessarily. While pricier shoes may indicate higher quality materials and construction, affordable options can still provide adequate comfort and support. Generic drug store varieties likely won’t suffice, but discount retailers and specialty brands can offer great shoes under $100.

Should arthritic feet wear wide width shoes?

In most cases, yes. People with arthritis often experience swelling in their feet, especially late in the day. Buying shoes a half-size to full size larger or wider accommodates this swelling and the bunions common with arthritic big toes. Just be sure wider shoes still properly support feet.

Can orthotics fit in any shoes for arthritis?

Not all shoes have removable insoles suitable for orthotics. Prioritize shoes with labels clearly stating they accommodate orthotics or medical inserts. Therapeutic footwear brands design shoes specifically for this purpose. Also look for adequate depth and width in the toe box so feet have plenty of room.

Are walking shoes good for running with arthritis?

Strictly speaking, no. Running shoes differ from standard walking shoes in a few subtle but important ways. Running shoes have extra shock absorption and more flexibility to work with the rolling motion of feet during runs and athletic maneuvers. They also offer greater stability and proprioception for safer activity. Always choose specialized running shoes for regular jogs.

What arthritis is associated with foot problems?

Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis most often impact feet, although psoriatic arthritis and post-traumatic arthritis following foot injuries can also cause issues. Rheumatoid arthritis tends to target multiple spots on both feet, while osteoarthritis typically appears in specific areas like the big toe, midfoot, or ball of the foot depending on the location of damage and misalignment.

Overcoming Foot Arthritis with Supportive Shoes

Arthritis can make standing, walking, and moving excruciating without proper foot support. While no shoes can perfectly treat arthritis, the cushioning, comfort, and stability of styles like walking shoes, running shoes, slippers, sandals, and therapeutic footwear goes a long way toward relieving pain and restoring mobility.

Pay special attention to features like arch support, shock absorption, toe box width, lightweight feel, flexibility, breathability, stretchy/adjustable closures, and slip resistance when shoe shopping. Consulting shoe fitters, podiatrists, and orthotists can also help narrow choices adapted to the unique needs of your feet.

While arthritis may have permanent effects on joints and tissues, the right footwear aids makes coping with discomfort far more manageable. Give your feet the nurturing they deserve, and the rest of the body will follow in greater health and capability.

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.