How the right shoes make it easier for orthotics to do their job

Whether it’s challenges when walking, standing or running, or pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis, diabetes, bursitis or arthritis, people may need to wear orthotic inserts inside their shoes for any number of reasons.

And while orthotics are a valuable tool to correct foot issues, they also bring certain challenges.

“Some people also need to wear an ankle brace called an ankle foot orthosis or AFO,” says Dominic Ahn, owner of Wide Shoes Only in Edmonds and Renton. “The problem with all of these devices, is you then need a shoe that can accommodate them.”

Wide Shoes Only features an assortment of shoes that not only allow you to wear these devices, but are built so they can work properly.

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“Orthotic inserts take up more volume, so you may need a mid- or high-top shoe,” Ahn says. “However, there are also orthotic-friendly shoes with insoles that can be easily pulled out to make room for the insert. We even have a double-depth model from Drew, which has two removable insoles.”

Ahn also points out that if a shoe is too soft and lacks enough support, orthotic inserts will not work properly.

“These inserts are hard braces intended to force your foot into the proper shape,” Ahn says. “Imagine standing on a hard insert on top of a soft mattress – your foot would roll all over the place!

“You need to have a shoe that’s firm enough for the orthotics to do what they’re meant to do.”

Ahn says that for issues such a pronation (when the foot rolls inward), and supiation (when the foot rolls outward), options also include doctor-recommended motion control shoes.

Wide Shoe Only has shoes and accessories to accommodate orthotic inserts, and knowledgeable staff to answer your questions.

“We carry several brands – including Brookes, New Balance and Cobb Hill – that have what are called ‘roll bars,’ which keep your foot from rolling in and out.”

At Wide Shoes Only, their friendly staff can help you find the right shoes, not only for your orthotic needs, but for all kinds of unique feet as well.

Their stores offer fun, fashionable premium-quality shoes for men and women, in wide sizes, with trained fitters available to answer your questions.

Learn more at wideshoesonly.net or Facebook and Instagram, then stop by, check out their selection, and pick up some gift certificates for stocking stuffers!

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