Arthritis and Footwear: Why your shoes matter more than you think
Arthritis is a common condition that causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, affecting millions of people worldwide. Although arthritis can impact any joint in the body, the feet and ankles are particularly vulnerable due to the constant stress they endure standing, walking, and every daily movement. One often overlooked yet highly impactful factor in managing arthritis-related foot pain is bespoke orthopaedic footwear designed especially to benefit your unique specifications, something the team at Bill Bird Shoes are more then happy to discuss with you.
How Arthritis Affects the Feet
There are more then 100 types of arthritis, but the most common types that are the feet include:
• Osteoarthritis: Wear- and-tear arthritis that leads to cartilage breakdown, commonly affecting the big toe, midfoot, and ankle.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition that can lead to joint deformities and affect both feet symmetrically.
• Gout: A form of inflammatory arthritis that often starts in the big toe and causes sudden, severe pain and swelling.
When arthritis affects the feet, it can often cause:
• Joint swelling and pain
• Difficulty walking
• Loss of mobility
• Changes in foot structure
The Crucial Role of Footwear in Arthritis Management
Poorly designed or ill-fitting footwear can worsen arthritis symptoms by placing additional stress on already inflamed joints. On the other hand, supportive and properly fitting footwear can significantly reduce discomfort and improve mobility.At Bill Bird Shoes we believe there are multiple arthritis-friendly features of footwear that can really be of benefit to those individuals suffering from the condition.Elements of the footwear such as cushioned insoles that can off-load pressure points, provide shock absorption and reduce the impact walking can have on sensitive joints.Arch support is vital for maintaining the correct foot alignment. This can be in the form of a soft cushioned orthotic insert or within the arch support of the footwear itself. By maintaining the foot alignment with the correct arch support, this can reduce the strain on joints and surrounding muscles. Supportive cushioned inserts can also be created bespoke for you to help off load pressure on joints as the foot is in motion. Footwear with a deep or particularly roomy toe box provides room and prevents overcrowding for toes that maybe swollen, retracted or deformed. A firm heel stiffener can often provide some Rearfoot stability, helping to maintain the correct foot alignment and control the foot during motion, this can be particularly helpful for people suffering with arthritic ankles. We only recommend and use the highest quality leathers, cushioning and materials in the making of our footwear, this is also vital to ensure foot health and prevent irritation of the skin or joints. The design of the upper of the footwear will be a collaboration between the team and yourself to create a style to reflect your personality as well as meet your functionality needs, adjustable straps or laces are often recommended as they can be loosened and tightened accordingly to suit any foot swelling throughout the day. Flexible soles and low heels or wedges can help distribute weight evenly during whilst walking, with the flexibility at the joints offering enough support during natural gait without over stressing the joints. The right footwear can really be a game changer for people living with arthritis. By choosing supportive, well-fitted shoes, individuals can reduce pain, improve mobility, and protect their joints from further damage. It’s not just about shoes for comfort - it’s about health independence and quality of life.
If you would like any further help and advice please do not hesitate to contact the team at their Cotswold workshop on 01386 700855 or enquiries@billbird.co.uk