Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens the bones and exposes the patient to an increased risk of fractures. To prevent falls and injuries, it is important to choose shoes that stabilize the feet. Let’s explore together the types of shoes that are recommended when suffering from osteoporosis.
The features of a shoe suitable for osteoporosis
Minor traumas can pose a health threat to individuals with reduced bone mass. To address the lack of bone tissue renewal, it is recommended to engage in regular physical activity to strengthen the bones. However, to protect against falls and impacts, it is essential to shop for suitable footwear. Good shoes should support the arch of the foot to evenly distribute the body weight. Flat soles should be avoided, and it is preferable to choose insoles with good density that cushion shocks at the heel. Additionally, opting for custom orthopedic insoles prescribed by a podiatrist can ensure optimal support.
Moreover, osteoporosis can cause dizziness and balance problems. Therefore, it is advisable to choose shoes capable of stabilizing the foot to prevent ankle sprains. It’s even better if their soles are slip-resistant, especially if you enjoy outdoor walking.
The types of shoes recommended for osteoporosis.
To maintain good mobility, it is recommended to choose shoes that are flexible, stable, and tailored to the shape of the foot. Unlike rigid shoes that can be restrictive, flexible shoes help strengthen the foot by engaging all its muscles. Initially, it’s important to determine with a podiatrist whether your foot has a high arch, standard arch, or is flat. These factors will determine the type of insole that suits you best.
It is also advisable to choose shoes specifically tailored to a particular activity. Running shoes, for instance, differ from tennis shoes or those designed for ball sports. This detail is significant because individuals with osteoporosis are often encouraged to engage in weight-bearing activities. The rationale is simple: by having the legs support the body weight, bone strengthening becomes more effective.
Lastly, depending on any discomfort experienced during walking, a podiatrist may prescribe custom-made orthopedic insoles. These can be easily inserted into shoes and adapted to the shape of your foot. They help alleviate pressure points, and if there is any foot deformity, they can contribute to correction. For more advanced conditions, a podiatrist may also recommend wearing orthopedic shoes, available in various varieties tailored for city walking, running, or hiking, among others.
The benefits of footwear tailored to a podiatric condition.
Wearing footwear adapted to your podiatric condition is an excellent way to reduce discomfort and ailments. Most of the time, foot-related pathologies cause bone or muscular pain that intensifies over time. By addressing their cause at the onset of the first symptoms, you give yourself better chances of maintaining a good quality of life. In the case of osteoporosis, you may experience back pain, for example. This is a common phenomenon that can be relieved by wearing appropriate shoes or orthotics. By supporting the arch of the foot, your overall balance is improved, reducing the risk of falls. Properly supporting and stabilizing your foot with the right footwear also helps prevent common injuries such as stress fractures or blisters on the foot.
Assessing the health of your feet with a podiatrist.
The weakening of bones caused by osteoporosis is sometimes difficult to detect quickly. In women, this disease is linked to a decrease in hormonal production, which plays a significant role in bone reconstruction. However, it can also occur in male patients. To prevent symptoms from worsening, it is recommended to remain attentive to the most common signs: pain in the feet and back, difficulty maintaining an upright posture, frequent falls, and injuries. Scheduling a routine visit to the podiatrist is a good way to assess the health of your feet and take preventive measures. Check our clinic list to make an appointment.