What Is the Function of Orthopedic Shoes?

Orthopedic shoes and orthotic inserts for your shoes are medical devices that may be recommended or prescribed by your doctor or podiatrist. Orthopedic shoes and orthotics can be purchased from specialty footwear stores or custommade, and your insurance may cover them if you have a prescription. According to the Mayo Clinic and the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine, the function of orthopedic shoes is to protect your feet from injury and reduce symptoms caused by foot disorders.

Alignment

Orthopedic shoes can help to properly align the joints of your feet, especially during exercise or while playing sports.

Cushioning

Your feet may be better cushioned from forces exerted on them when you run, walk or jump, which can lessen symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory foot conditions.

Gait

Your gait may be improved by wearing orthopedic shoes, which can result in fewer wear-and-tear injuries to your foot, such as blisters and calluses.

Improved Performance

You may experience an improvement in your athletic performance as a result of wearing orthopedic shoes, due to an increase in the range of motion and flexibility of your foot.

Protection

Wearing orthopedic shoes can protect the joints in your feet, as well as your knees and hips, due to better positioning of your body when you walk.

Support

Orthotic inserts and orthopedic shoes can provide better support for the arch of your feet than other types of shoes, reducing symptoms of plantar fasciitis and tendinitis.

Resources

• American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine: Selecting Shoes