How Your Shoes Affect Your Knees

March 29, 2018 9:06 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

Many people aren’t aware that the type of shoes they select can have a direct effect on their knees, and can in fact lead to ailments and knee troubles over time. Fortunately, an orthopedic doctor in Las Vegas, NV is here to help explain just how connected the shoes you wear are to your overall knee health:

  • Shoe soles: If there is excessive wear on the inner sides of your shoes or you notice that the heel has begun tilting inward, you might have an overpronated gait. If you suffer from overpronation, your leg and knee rotate inward when you walk, and this is typically caused by low arches. This rotation could be putting extra strain on your knees, which could eventually cause you a lot of pain. To combat overpronation, search for shoes with a firm midsole.
  • Wear sneakers: In order to promote good knee health, you need shoes that offer stability and control for your foot, lower legs and knees. Sneakers that were designed for running or other rigorous athletic activity can help do just that, and those with knee problems could benefit by owning a pair or two. The firm heel and side posts on sneakers can help to keep your foot stable when you walk, reducing the strain being placed on your knees.
  • High-heeled shoes: Women who wear high heels every day could be making themselves vulnerable to knee problems over time. Whether you like to wear 6-inch heels or you prefer a shorter length, high heels could be putting 10 percent more pressure on your knees than flats.
  • Search for cushion: With every step you take, your feet, legs and knees are absorbing a substantial amount of impact, especially if you are walking or standing on hard surfaces such as concrete. When shopping for shoes, be sure to look for a pair that has enough cushion to absorb this shock and alleviate any pain in your knees.
  • Use orthotics: Just as certain types of shoes can help relieve the amount of pain that someone with knee issues experiences, using orthotics for added cushioning can go a long way toward helping relieve some of the pain in your knee as well. These orthotics can be found in many of your local shoe stores, and you can even have a custom pair made to address your specific gait and knee issues if necessary.

The design and functionality of the shoes you wear can have lasting effects on your knee health, which is why it is so important to spend time making sure you have selected the right fit. If you are ready to take the next step and speak with an orthopedic doctor in Las Vegas, NV for help with assessing the link between the shoes you wear and the effects they may have been having on your knees over the years, contact Bernard Ong, M.D. For many years, Dr. Ong has helped patients with various knee ailments and injuries get on the right track to a healthier, more active life. Give us a call today and schedule your consultation so you too can live your best life with healthy, happy knees.

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