How to Choose Shoes for Unstable Feet

If you are unstable on your feet, you will benefit greatly from the correct pair of shoes. Foot instability can make you more prone to falling, tripping, rolling your ankle, and make it difficult to walk on uneven surfaces. Playing sports can be a real problem and you will be more prone to injuries. Your foot may be unstable due to a neurological condition, a previous injury, or your foot type such as a high arched foot or a flat foot. Foot instability is commonly seen in toddlers and the elderly. As you age, you are more prone to falling, even around your home. Whatever your case, this article will help you choose shoes to benefit your unstable feet.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Prosthetist
• Orthotist

1. Take a look at your current collection of shoes. What are the problems with each pair? Are you more prone to tripping in a certain pair than another? Do you roll your ankle in one style of sneakers and not another? This will give you a general idea on the style of shoe that is more beneficial to you.

2. Choose a shoe that has a lace or an adjustable strap to provide support for your foot. If you are unable to wear this type of shoe, choose one where the front of the shoe (the vamp) comes up high on the top of foot. This is crucial if you are planning to be on your feet a great deal. If you have a slip-on shoe your foot will be unsupported and you will be more likely to trip.

3. Squeeze the heel counter that wraps around the heel of the foot to make sure that it is firm. This should be done before trying the shoe on. If the heel counter is firm it will support the foot more than a soft heel counter. A soft heel counter will allow the ankle to roll and you will be more likely to trip or fall.

4. Bend and twist the shoe to make sure it is not too flexible. The shoe should bend at the area that corresponds to the ball of the foot. If the shoe is very flexible and bends in half very easily this is not the shoe for you. Again, this should be done before trying on the shoe.

5. Turn the shoe over and take a look at the sole of the shoe. You need the sole of the shoe to be straight along the arch area (straight last) and not curved or narrow. This will give you a wider base to walk on and provide more support, so you will be less likely to fall. The exception to this is if you have a very high arched foot, in which case you may feel more comfortable in a curved last. Some sneakers and walking shoes are designed specifically for a high- or low-arched foot and can be very beneficial.

6. Consider a boot to provide more support for your ankle. This may be easier in the cooler months.

7. Take your new shoes to the podiatrist if you are still unsure. She may refer you to to an orthopedic footwear specialist, an orthotist, prosthetist or a specialist shoe store. Your shoes may be adjusted to add a wedge to the sole to add stability when you walk.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that laces and straps are there for a reason. Make sure that you tie your laces firmly or secure the strap snugly.
• Never slip your laced shoes on or off without untying the laces first.
• Always take your orthotics with you when buying new shoes and try the new shoes on with the orthotics inside. Orthotics can be of great benefit and assist in stabilizing your foot.
• Always wear the type of hosiery when buying a shoe that you intend to wear with that shoe. If wearing a thin stocking when buying the shoe, then a thick sock will not be accommodated.
• It is best to go shoe shopping at the end of the day. Your feet swell as the day goes on and this will ensure that the shoe will fit you when your foot is at its largest.

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[coachmac4]

on 8/17/2008 Thanks for this great article! 5 stars!