Pain and discomfort can radiate from the feet down the entire lower leg or even beyond if the arches collapse in flat feet, causing the entire sole of the foot to come into touch with the ground. Wearing shoes with enough arch support is a fantastic method to reduce discomfort and offer relief.

By enhancing foot alignment, absorbing shock, adding extra cushioning, lowering foot fatigue, easing pain, and preventing further foot issues, wearing footwear with adequate arch support can help reduce these symptoms. Correct foot alignment with arch-supporting shoes lessens the stress on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, minimizing overpronation.

Selecting proper footwear is an important part of managing flat feet. The right shoes can provide support, reduce pain, and improve comfort when walking or standing. It would be easy for us to simply state that you should wear supportive arch shoes while you walk and stop there. However, because our goal is to actually assist you, let’s take a closer look at the specific aspects you should take into account if you have flat feet and are shopping for new walking shoes. Yes, integrated arch support helps distribute the body’s weight more evenly in footwear made for flat feet, but that’s only one of several contributing variables.

 When shopping for shoes, keep these tips in mind:

  • Appropriate size: If you have wide feet in particular, make sure your shoes fit properly and allow enough room for your toes and foot form. Shoes that are too small or too big can cause pain and perhaps foot problems. Remember that having too much space can sometimes be an issue, therefore it’s important to always prioritize appropriate size over quantity.
  • Look for good arch support: Shoes that have built-in arch support or that can accommodate orthotics are ideal for flat feet. Arch support helps reduce stress on the plantar fascia and prevents the arch from collapsing further.
  • Choose shoes with cushioned insoles: Cushioning absorbs shock and reduces pressure on the feet. Softer insoles can also enhance comfort if you have flat feet. Memory foam or gel insoles are excellent choices.
  • Get the proper toe box width: Make sure shoes are wide enough to prevent crowding of the toes, but not so wide your foot is sliding around. The toes should have plenty of room to spread out naturally when wearing shoes.
  • Breathability: This is a shoe advice, but it applies particularly to walking shoes. Select shoes with breathable fabrics to help prevent fungal infections and blisters while keeping your feet dry. For footwear intended for prolonged usage, a breathable mesh is especially crucial.
  • Shoes designed with a contoured Arch and Deep Heel Cup: Seek out footwear with a distinct heel cup and a sculpted arch. These characteristics may offer more stability and support.
  • Removable Insoles: Certain shoes feature removable insoles that let you use bespoke orthotics or podiatrist-recommended insoles for improved support.
  • Avoid high heels or going barefoot whenever possible: High heels and bare feet put added pressure on the feet and arches, which can exacerbate pain and other symptoms of flat feet. When possible, wear supportive athletic or walking shoes.
  • Opt for shoes with stability control: People with flat feet typically pull their ankles inside when walking or running, which can naturally strain the knees and eventually cause pain and discomfort. Therefore, people with this kind of issue need to wear shoes that offer stability management. In addition to lessening discomfort, these shoes offer excellent cushioning for flat feet. Purchase a shoe that will hug the ankle gently but firmly.
  • Find out if the shoes have motion control: Motion control is an additional feature to consider when purchasing shoes for flat feet. This is appropriate for people with low-arched feet who run frequently. Maintaining straight ankles when moving is the primary goal of motion-control shoes. These shoes will have dual-density foam installed right beneath the medial side of the arch in order to achieve this kind. Therefore, these motion-control shoes will only be comforting to those who have severe pronation.
  • Medial Post: While cushioned shoes are a must for treating flat feet, there is a chance that they will be excessively unstable. In this situation, a medial post is useful. It’s a structural characteristic of some shoes, especially those made for people with flat feet or overpronation. It is a thick, elevated region that runs from the heel to the arch area on the inside of the midsole. A medial post’s function is to lessen the foot’s excessive inward rolling motion when walking or running, giving the foot more support and stability. It assists in restoring the natural alignment of the foot and inhibits overpronation, which can result in a number of problems with the foot and lower limb. In general, a medial post serves as a device for support inside the shoe, encouraging appropriate foot alignment thereby improving comfort.

Wearing appropriate, well-fitted shoes and avoiding high heels or bare feet can make a significant difference in managing flat feet. Consulting with a podiatrist can help determine the best shoes for your individual foot type and needs. Taking the time to find supportive, comfortable shoes is essential for people with fallen arches.

Doral Health & Wellness employs Podiatrists with extensive education and expertise. Trauma to the tendons, muscles, and bones of the foot is quite common. It’s not a good idea to put off seeing a Foot Doctor Brooklyn until you’re in a lot of pain. Our address is 1797 Pitkin Avenue, New York, NY 11212. To make an appointment, please call +1-347-384-5690 or send an email toinfo@podiatristsbrooklyn.com.