Do you know just how important proper shoes are? Your feet are your body’s first point of impact with the ground, and walking with the wrong kind of shoes can place stress on your hips and knees, the largest joints in your body.
Even athletic shoes like sneakers can cause damage if they don’t fit you well. That’s why Dr. James M. Lee and his experienced team at Orange Orthopaedic have compiled this helpful guide to help you get the best shoes for your unique orthopedic profile.
There are a couple of shoes that are worse on your knees and hips than others. These are the shoes that you’ll want to limit or completely avoid because of the way they negatively impact your joints.
We’re sure you’ve heard this before, but you may not know just how damaging high heels are on your joints. Studies show us that the strain high heels place on your kneecaps can actually lead to considerable knee trauma and pain. A Harvard study found that high heels place 23% more pressure on your knees than that of your natural barefoot state.
Even dress shoes with a slightly elevated heel can cause damage to your joints. So while it’s okay to wear these shoes in moderation, consistent use can still cause some serious damage. Virginia University researchers found that even shoes with heels of about 1.5 inches place 14% more strain on your feet.
If you have joint pain, you’ll likely want to try athletic or running shoes, as they have the best cushioning and support for your joints and overall orthopedic health.
But there are so many shoe brands claiming to have the best fit or the most support. However, research reveals that this is not always the case.
In fact, a 2016 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine that studied 164 adults with knee osteoarthritis found that there was no difference in knee pain between those who walked with enhanced shoes and those who didn’t.
At Orange Orthopaedic, we understand that the best way to find your ideal footwear is tailor it to your specific orthopedic needs. We take the time to give you a thorough examination in order to evaluate which shoes will suit your unique needs.
If you’re experiencing hip or knee pain and feel unsure about which shoes are best for you, it might be time to make an appointment with Dr. Lee. Call us or schedule an appointment right on our website today to get started.
