MD Podiatrist Discusses What to Look for in an Orthopedic Shoe

Podiatrists emphasize that the right footwear does more than just cushion your steps: It serves as a medical tool that can improve your overall physical health. “Simply put, orthopedic shoes aren’t just comfortable: they’re therapeutic,” Dan Michaels, DPM, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon. “If your current shoes feel comfortable for only a few hours or you consistently feel foot fatigue, those are big clues,” Dr. Michaels said.

When shopping for new shoes, experts suggest taking a close look at the construction of the footwear. A high-quality supportive shoe should be difficult to bend and deform. “When in doubt, bend the shoe,” Dr. Michaels advised. “If it folds like a taco, it’s not orthopedic.” In addition to the “taco test,” you should check the heel counter, which is the back part of the shoe that surrounds the heel. Press against it. A sturdy shoe will resist collapsing, helping to control side-to-side motion as you walk. You should also try to twist the shoe. If the middle section remains rigid while you twist the front and back in opposite directions, it likely has the arch support needed to keep your joints aligned.