How To Select The Ideal Orthopedic Shoe For Your Needs
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Orthopedic shoes are meant to offer comfort and support, but if you find that yours never seem to fit comfortably, it is possible that you have chosen the wrong style or design. When selecting any kind of orthopedic shoe, it’s crucial to pay attention to shape and comfort.
Most importantly, focus on how much YOU like the shoe versus whether it’s fashionable or liked by others. This is the only way you will be able to select a shoe that adequately addresses your foot problems.
One of the biggest mistakes novice shoe shoppers
tend to make is not accounting for the swelling of their feet. This is why it’s always recommended to shop for orthopedic footwear towards the end of the day when your feet are naturally at their “biggest”.
When determining fit, also keep in mind whether you’re going to wear socks with your new footwear. If so, wear your favorite pair of socks when trying on the shoes and walk around to determine whether the fit is appropriate for you. If it pinches or hurts anywhere, do not buy the shoes as they will never stretch!
Orthopedic shoes,
like Oboz, are meant to take a load off of your feet and help you cushion against the impact of hard surfaces. Check the shoe you’re looking to buy by turning it over and considering whether there’s cushioning and support against walking.
Many people feel embarrassed asking for help when shoe shopping, but don’t be! Ask a shop assistant to help you measure your feet for a perfect fit. Don’t get alarmed if one of your feet is slightly larger than the other or they have increased in size as you’ve grown older. Both of these things are perfectly normal!
The ideal orthopedic shoe should offer the following for your needs:
- Provide adequate cushioning and support while standing and walking on hard surfaces. Though shoes could never altogether eliminate the force your body experiences when walking, they can help diminish its impact of it.
- The appropriate footwear for your feet should support and align your foot while standing on a flat surface.
- From the moment you try on your shoes, they should feel comfortable without pinching or hurting.
- It is crucial to select a shoe that fits well without being too small or too large. They should not flop or come off of your feet as you move around. As such, they should delicately hug the curves of your feet.
*This article is based on personal suggestions and/or experiences and is for informational purposes only. This should not be used as professional advice. Please consult a professional where applicable.