Your feet support your entire body

Your feet support your entire body—helping you stand, walk, and stay balanced every day. Yet, many of us underestimate their importance or inadvertently harm them by wearing ill-fitting, uncomfortable shoes.

For those with arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other foot and ankle conditions, pain and deformities can disrupt your biomechanics, leading to additional strain on your knees, hips, and back. Proper footwear is essential—not just for comfort, but to help you stay active and maintain your independence over the long term.

This guide provides valuable information on common foot and ankle conditions, shares tips to ease pain, and offers practical advice for choosing the right shoes. Here are some key tips to help you pick supportive, comfortable shoes suitable for any foot condition:

Tips for Choosing the Right Shoes:

• Prioritize Support: Look for shoes with good arch support to help align your feet and reduce strain.
• Opt for Wide Toe Boxes: Shoes with a spacious toe area prevent squeezing, reduce pressure on swollen or deformed toes, and help prevent blisters and bunions.
• Choose Cushioning: Padded insoles absorb shock and minimize stress on painful joints, especially important if you have rheumatoid arthritis or inflammation.
• Select a Stable Heel: A low, broad heel offers better stability and balance, reducing pressure on your knees and ankles while preventing falls.
• Flexibility Matters: Shoes should bend comfortably at the ball of the foot, allowing natural movement.
• Get the Right Fit: Always try shoes on later in the day when feet tend to be larger, and ensure there’s about a thumb’s width of space between your toes and the end of the shoe.

Remember, supportive footwear whether it’s Hoka Zara, new Balance cloud or any other brand make sure you have someone fit you , because it isn’t just about comfort—it’s about keeping your feet healthy and active so you can enjoy life to the fullest. Your feet are the foundation of mobility—treat them well!