MD Podiatrist Discusses How to Choose Shoes if You Have Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are a common foot ailment. “The cause is chronic and repetitive micro-tearing of the plantar fascia or Achilles tendon,” says Dan Michaels, DPM. “Over time, the body deposits calcium where the tearing occurs as a reaction to the tearing.”
 
When looking for a shoe for heel spurs, Dr. Michaels recommends a rigid sole, as that dictates the stability of the shoe. “Someone with heel spurs needs extra rigidity in the sole and cushioning in the midfoot to prevent impact on the heel,” she explains. To see whether your sole is rigid enough, Dr. Michaels recommends a test: “Hold the front of the shoe with one hand and the back of the shoe with another hand. Try to twist the shoe side to side. There should be minimal to no twisting motion possible.”