Arthritis is the term used to describe the inflammation and swelling of the cartilage and lining of the joints. It is usually coupled with an increase in the fluid around the joints and it is most commonly diagnosed in the lower extremities of the body. This causes sufferers of Arthritis to find normal tasks like walking and moving extremely difficult and often painful. The feet are more susceptible to arthritis than other parts of the body because each foot has 33 joints than can be afflicted.
Choosing the best shoes for Arthritis can be tricky sometimes. Anyone suffering from arthritis in their feet knows that something as simple as taking a step can be painful. While the full course of treatment will differ from person to person, the use of shoes for arthritis can, in some cases, reduce the pain caused by the disease. The main things to look for when buying shoes for arthritis are shoes that do not restrict the feet and that have a comfortable heel. While that would obviously exclude such shoes as those with extra high heels and pointy toes, there are some shoes for arthritis that are better than others. There are basically three choices when it comes to buying shoes for arthritis.
Shoes that do not fit correctly can lead to a number of problems as well as make existing problems even worse. There is a common misconception that shoes need to be broken in before they fit comfortably. This is completely untrue. Shoes that fit properly should be comfortable to wear on day one without any time needed to break them in.
When a shoe is too narrow it can cause a number of different problems. One of the most serious problems that it can cause is the fact that a narrow shoe will shove the balls of the feet together. This can result in the nerves between the balls of the feet being pinched and cause 'neuromas.' A neuroma can be quite painful and may even require injections or surgery to correct. If left untreated, this problem can cause a loss of sensation not to mention extreme pain. Even when neuromas are corrected they can return if the individual returns to wearing ill-fitting shoes.
Custom fit or prescription shoes are shoes for arthritis that are custom made specifically to fit your foot. To have these shoes made, a cast is made of your foot. Using the exact shape and measurements of your feet, shoes are created. Often, this is done with a prescription from your doctor. The pros of these shoes for arthritis are that, because they were made specifically for your feet, you will probably get the most support from them. Also, if your doctor writes a prescription for such shoes, the cost may be covered by your insurance. The cons are that the styles may be somewhat limited. Also, if your insurance will not cover the cost, they can be quite expensive.
Calluses are not necessarily painful; however, they can certainly be unsightly. Calluses also appear as a rough, thick layer of skin. They can commonly measure about an inch or even more in diameter. Bunions can also be very painful. They are commonly caused by pressure and abnormal motion on the joint of the big toe. One of the most common underlying causes of this problem is shoes that do not fit properly.
Choosing the best shoes for Arthritis can be tricky sometimes. Anyone suffering from arthritis in their feet knows that something as simple as taking a step can be painful. While the full course of treatment will differ from person to person, the use of shoes for arthritis can, in some cases, reduce the pain caused by the disease. The main things to look for when buying shoes for arthritis are shoes that do not restrict the feet and that have a comfortable heel. While that would obviously exclude such shoes as those with extra high heels and pointy toes, there are some shoes for arthritis that are better than others. There are basically three choices when it comes to buying shoes for arthritis.
Shoes that do not fit correctly can lead to a number of problems as well as make existing problems even worse. There is a common misconception that shoes need to be broken in before they fit comfortably. This is completely untrue. Shoes that fit properly should be comfortable to wear on day one without any time needed to break them in.
When a shoe is too narrow it can cause a number of different problems. One of the most serious problems that it can cause is the fact that a narrow shoe will shove the balls of the feet together. This can result in the nerves between the balls of the feet being pinched and cause 'neuromas.' A neuroma can be quite painful and may even require injections or surgery to correct. If left untreated, this problem can cause a loss of sensation not to mention extreme pain. Even when neuromas are corrected they can return if the individual returns to wearing ill-fitting shoes.
Custom fit or prescription shoes are shoes for arthritis that are custom made specifically to fit your foot. To have these shoes made, a cast is made of your foot. Using the exact shape and measurements of your feet, shoes are created. Often, this is done with a prescription from your doctor. The pros of these shoes for arthritis are that, because they were made specifically for your feet, you will probably get the most support from them. Also, if your doctor writes a prescription for such shoes, the cost may be covered by your insurance. The cons are that the styles may be somewhat limited. Also, if your insurance will not cover the cost, they can be quite expensive.
Calluses are not necessarily painful; however, they can certainly be unsightly. Calluses also appear as a rough, thick layer of skin. They can commonly measure about an inch or even more in diameter. Bunions can also be very painful. They are commonly caused by pressure and abnormal motion on the joint of the big toe. One of the most common underlying causes of this problem is shoes that do not fit properly.
About the Author:
Amelia is an orthopaedic consultant in Atlanta. Her articles on bespoke shoes are awesome and unparalleled.