If you’ve never considered your shoes as the source of your back pain, think again. Choosing to wear the wrong shoe or one that fits incorrectly contributes to back pain and other unhealthy conditions for your feet and other joints. The professionals of Crown Foot and Ankle Center in Danville and Lexington KY can accurately help you indicate what is causing your back pain. But first, consider whether or not your choice in shoes is contributing to the pain.
Check Your Sole
The first indication that the way you walk is causing your back pain can be determined by simply checking the sole of your shoe. Ideally, people should step with only the fore front and very back of their feet hitting the floor. With continual movement, the soles of your shoes will wear in the areas where your feet come in contact with the ground first. This means that normal wear for a shoe is typically on the outside edge. This will be highly noticeable on shoes that are worn for walking or running as they tend to wear faster due to more use. If you notice that your shoes are worn too far to the outer edge, this may be a sign of over-supination, and if they’re worn too far to the inside, this reflects over-pronation. Both will cause back pain, and if you notice your shoes are wearing in a similar fashion, consult your podiatrist for recommendations on the best shoes for you.
Buy What Fits
Everyone has a desire to look their best and be fashionable, but you should never sacrifice comfort for style. When shoe shopping, look for shoes that fit your feet both in length and width. Make sure you choose shoes that cover your feet and fit properly and try to avoid extensive walking in shoes, such as sandals, that offer no coverage or support. A shoe that is too large or even too small can cause further problems than back pain, including bunions, blisters, and calluses. Take your time in selecting a decent shoe to wear on a daily basis. Consider how much you walk or stand, and be sure to try on a shoe before purchasing it. Wear it around the store and walk around in a potential new shoe for several minutes to ensure it fits well. If need be, get fitted for your shoe and special order the correct width or length that you need if it isn’t in stock. Don’t settle for a shoe that looks great but doesn’t fit appropriately.
Support
The most important factor for a new shoe when back pain is involved is the amount of support that it offers in the arch. Shoes that come with excellent arch supports can drastically reduce back pain, if not relieving it all together depending on how serious your condition is. Make sure that the toe of your foot has enough space to move and that the heel of the shoe fits snug so that it does not slide up and down when walking. The arch should be well supported at all times, especially for daily walking or running shoes. Be sure to avoid high heels if you’re struggling with arch support as these will tend to stretch your arch and offer very little cushioning in that area. Flats and sandals are also shoes that you will want to avoid for long periods of time if you need additional support for your arches, as these shoes offer little to none. If you’re an avid runner, it’s recommended that you take added precaution and buy new shoes every 3 months or 350-500 miles to maintain good foot health.
If you continue to struggle with back pain from walking or running and are considering a podiatrist in Lexington KY, contact the staff of Crown Foot and Ankle Center today for their professional advice.