Why is selecting the right footwear so important?

Posted on June 27, 2011

Be Proactive for your Feet

One of the most commonly asked questions to a physical therapist regarding footwear is, 'Do you know what kind of shoes are the best for my feet?' Unfortunately there is not an easy answer to this dilemma. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel for the casual walker or competitive runner who has been searching for an easy answer to this question. The shoes on your feet are the most important weapons to guard and protect against injury or overuse problems that can develop from every day use.

Anatomy of the Foot

Basically the motions of the foot are broken down into two categories described as pronation and supination. A 'pronator' is a person with a low arch or a 'flat foot'. A 'supinator' is an individual with a high arch. 'Pronators' are able to absorb shock caused by different ground surfaces or foot positions but are susceptible to overuse injuries. 'Supinators' are not able to absorb shock very well and are more vulnerable stress induced injuries. The 'pronator' adapts well with a rigid shoe for overuse prevention and conversely, a 'supinator' is best suited for a flexible shoe with shock absorption. This is the basic terminology and characteristics of footwear, however, to further prepare you, listed below are additional features to look out for in making your selection.

Heel Counter

This is an inflexible material surrounding the heel of the shoe. A heel counter should be sturdy, snug, resistant to a firm squeeze, and have a tight fit feeling. When observing the heel counter, rest it on a tabletop facing the shoe away from you. The heel should be perpendicular to the table surface. All of these suggestions are of major importance to prevent excessive heel motion in walking or running activities.

Mid-Sole

The area between the outer and innersole is the mid-sole, designed to absorb shock. By pressing upward on the toe portion of the shoe, it should flex before the laces otherwise this may cause increased pressure to the midfoot area with walking or running. 'Pronators' respond well to a rigid mid-sole with a built-up inner portion of the shoe. 'Supinators' react better to a shoe with a soft, energy absorbing mid-sole.

Last

The last is other wise known as the shape of the shoe. There are three different kinds of lasts: curved, semi-curved, and straight which can be best observed from the bottom of the shoe. 'Pronators' achieve success with straight lasts and 'supinators' do well with curved or semi-curved lasts.

Inner Last

Underlying the innersole of the shoe is the inner last. Slip lasting, combination, or board is three different options. 'Supinators' benefit from a slip lasting because of the
flexibility and the seams of fabric under the inner sole. A board lasting is a cardboardlike substance that fits underneath the insole. This is more effective for a 'pronator' because it is rigid and provides for a solid base of support.

Overuse or stress injuries can easily be avoided with the proper footwear. Additional options to footwear such as orthotics may also help to correct faulty foot alignments if problems persist. For more information on footwear, injury prevention, or other concerns please call Back in Action at 920-922-7776.

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