MD Podiatrist Discusses Best Footwear for Teachers

Teachers are on their feet all day, and having the right shoes is essential to survive long days of grading homework assignments and quizzes, hands-on lessons, recess duty, and parent-teacher meetings. For those with plantar fasciitis, board-certified podiatrist Dan Michaels, DPM recommends choosing a shoe with “arch support, cushioning, and a thicker, shock-absorbing sole.”
 
Dr. Michaels notes that some other styles to avoid include flat, thin and worn-out shoes. “Also, it is a good idea to alternate shoes throughout the week and day, if necessary,” she adds. Wearing the same shoes all day can cause injury and atrophy. Additionally, she suggests to “avoid walking barefoot when at home and wear supportive slippers or recovery slides” after a long day of standing and running. According to Dr. Michaels, walking barefoot can cause foot pain, inflammation, plantar fasciitis, back pain, tendonitis, and other ailments over time.