Proper footwear is essential for a patient who is experiencing heel pain. Often the cause of heel pain can start due to improper shoe gear. A proper athletic shoe will help alleviate heel pain if it is the correct type of shoe for the patients foot.
Most people do not realize that there are many models or shoes available and most likely one will fit your specific foot better then others. It is very easy to buy and wear the wrong type of shoe without realizing it. By doing this your feet will continue to hurt, your arches will be tired at the end of the day and your feet will be sore in places that you didn't realize could hurt.
Depending on the specific foot type you have and your bio mechanics (the way you walk and run) can help determine the best shoe for your foot. A person with a high arched foot or a "pes cavus foot type" will be best fit in a cushion of neutral type of shoe. A person with a flatter foot or hypermobile foot or better known as "pes planus foot type" will need a moderate to maximum motion control shoe. A normal foot type is usually best fit in a light stability or mild motion control shoe.
Many times patients will come into our office and will be confused if they are in the correct shoes. When this occurs a shoe exam can be performed checking for heel counter rigidity, midfoot torsion stability, and forefoot flexion of the shoe. Once in the appropriate shoe a gait exam can be performed which includes the patient walking and running in their shoe gear. At that time it can be determined if an orthotic is necessary for your specific type of foot. An orthotic is a custom device that will fit into your shoe and help you function in a more ideal and neutral position.
So if your feet hurt, or you are not sure you are wearing the correct shoes, think about visiting a podiatrist who can help confirm what is the best shoe for your feet.
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