The Right Shoes for Arthritis
Millions of Americans suffer from arthritis. Characterized by inflammation of joints, this ailment leads to pain and mobility issues. While there are actually 100+ different forms of this condition, most of us are most familiar with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Both affect the body in different ways, and both can make being on our feet quite painful.
Shoes to Alleviate Pain from Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that systematically attacks the joints. RA patients typically develop deformities on the feet as well as severe stiffness and pain in the balls of the feet.
What is a helpful shoe for someone with rheumatoid arthritis? Ideally, it should be footwear that is especially deep. It should also have removable insoles so that, if necessary, other supports can be inserted instead. Slip-on shoes or shoes with Velcro straps make getting the shoes on and off easier.
While basic cushioning is certainly helpful in relieving pain, alone it is not enough. Strategic shock absorption and proper arch support are essential attributes in shoes for RA patients. These features assist in the prevention of further pain or inflammation. Since rheumatoid arthritis can change the shape of the feet and cause bumps on the sides, it is also vitally important that shoes have lots of room. If shoes are too tight, they can cause an RA sufferer a great deal of foot pain. Dansko is a brand that is characterized by its arch support and wide box toe.
Shoes to Alleviate Pain from Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis causes cartilage to lose its elasticity and, consequently, this triggers joints of the feet to become excruciatingly swollen and inflamed. Moreover, patients are prone to the development of other painful foot deformities including hammertoes, bunions, and stiff big toes. Luckily, the right footwear can help to relieve the discomfort.
First-rate shock absorption is a necessity for any sufferer of osteoarthritis. This podiatric element will decrease the pressure on joint cartilage. In addition, footwear should have excellent support so that the arch of the foot does not collapse. Browse Superfeet to find plenty of insoles that will bring physical reprieve.
Individuals with osteoarthritis should search for shoes that have a loose fit within the toe box and sides, as any squeezing can lead to unnecessary throbbing. Shoes made from flexible materials are highly recommended in case there are any changes in the shape or size of the arthritic feet.
Types of shoes that arthritis sufferers should definitely avoid include high heels with pointed toes. Research studies indicate that this type of footwear can significantly contribute to the development of arthritis of the knees.
Shoes to Address Gout
Another form of arthritis that affects lower limbs is gout, a condition that is more common among males than females. While incidents of pain are short-lived compared to the above mentioned forms of arthritis, they can be extremely painful. Gout is often associated with a diet high in uric acid like beer, red meat and shellfish, but wearing improperly fitting shoes can actually provoke gout as well. Make sure your footwear isn’t too tight, provides generous padding in the insoles and has supportive midsoles that will ensure your weight is being correctly distributed; Vionic Shoes is a reliable brand that provides all of these attributes. For additional details about gout, click here (insert hyperlink to article specifically about gout).
Resources:
http://www.healthyfeetstore.com/arthritis-shoes.html
http://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/best-shoes-arthritis#1
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/arthritis/DS01122
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7621.php
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gout/DS00090
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20458446,00.html