Have you ever thought about the impact of footwear on joint health? The shoes you wear regularly might be affecting your joints more than you realize. Whether you are an athlete, a person whose job is to stand for too long or a normal person going for a regular walk, you should be wearing good quality shoes. A shoe that holds proper grip and provides support with comfort is considered as a good shoe. Dr. Preetesh Choudhary, Top Orthopaedic Doctor will guide you through the importance of good quality shoes to stay fit and keep your joints healthy.
Impact of Footwear on Joint Health- What is the link?
Joints in your lower body- Hips, Knees, Ankles and Lower Back bear maximum weight of the body. A good shoe will help distribute the weight to all joints equally. If you wear any improper footwear, which does not provide support then there may be chances of your joint getting stressed, can cause Flat Feet, lead to Misalignment and alter your Posture.
How Improper Footwear lead to Joint Pain and Injuries-
- Lack of Arch Support – Shoes with inadequate arch support can cause or worsen your flat feet which will then eventually lead to forcing your knee joint to compensate for the misalignment. Over time, this can result in joint pain and a higher risk of conditions like Osteoarthritis.
- High Heels– Wearing high heels regularly shifts your center of gravity forward, putting excessive pressure on your knees and lower back. This unnatural posture can lead to knee pain, joint injuries and even degenerative conditions over time.
- Unsupportive Shoes- Old or poorly designed shoes lose their cushioning and shock absorption properties, increasing the impact on your joints, highlighting the effect of footwear on joint health and comfort. Running, walking or standing for long hours in such footwear can contribute to chronic joint pain and stiffness.
- Shoes That Are Too Tight or Too Loose- Ill-fitted shoes can cause misalignment in your gait, leading to excessive stress on your knees and hips. If your shoes are too tight, they can restrict your movement and if they are overly loose then they may fail to provide the necessary support required, increasing the risk of knee injuries.
How to choose the right shoes for your joint health?
An appropriate shoe might be more expensive than that of the others but it will surely provide you better support, better grip and will distribute the weight evenly in all the joints. If you are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort in your knee joint then selecting the right footwear can make a world of difference, as the impact of footwear on joint health can play a significant role in relieving pain and improving mobility. Here’s how-
- Prioritize Arch Support- For those with flat feet, choosing shoes with proper arch support is essential. Well-supported arches help in maintaining the correct posture and prevent excessive strain on the knee joint.
- Opt for Cushioned Shoes- Shoes with good cushioning absorb shock and reduce impact on your joints, particularly if you are engaged in daily activities such as walking or running regularly. This can help prevent joint pain and knee injuries.
- Ensure the Right Fit- Your shoes should fit you comfortably. Avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose as they can contribute to an uneven gait and increased pressure on your knees.
- Consider Orthopedic Insoles- If you have flat feet, consider using custom orthotic insoles. These are designed to provide the necessary arch support and improve foot alignment, reducing the risk of joint pain and knee surgery.
- Avoid High Heels for Daily Wear- While high heels may be fashionable, they are not ideal for daily wear. If you want to wear them on a daily basis then opt for lower heels with better support to minimize strain on your knee joint.
Conclusion-
Your footwear plays a bigger role in joint health than you might think. The right pair of shoes can reduce joint pain, improve posture, and even help prevent future knee or back problems. So next time you buy shoes, choose comfort and support over just looks.
If you’re already facing knee or joint pain, it’s time to consult an expert.
Why choose MLs Clinic?
- Expert Orthopedic Care: With over 16 years of experience, Dr. Preetesh specializes in treating joint pain and related conditions with the latest techniques.
- Personalized Advice: You get more than just treatment, you’ll receive practical lifestyle tips like choosing the right footwear to avoid future problems.
- Modern Facilities: MLs Clinic is equipped with advanced technology for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
- Patient-Centered Approach: Every patient is given personal attention, ensuring you feel heard, understood, and cared for throughout your recovery journey.
