Contrary to popular belief, open shoes don’t have to mean significantly less support. The best sandals for back pain have all of the necessary features to prevent overworked muscles and unnecessary pressure. In order to find those features, I spoke with an orthopedic surgeon to inform recommendations.
The Expert
Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo, M.D., is a board-certified New York City-based spinal and orthopedic surgeon who leads The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care. He attained a bachelor's degree in biology from Brown University and earned his medical degree at Johns Hopkins.
What To Look For In Sandals When You Have Back Pain
- Insole: According to Dr. Okubadejo, run-of-the-mill flip flops “don’t provide enough support or padding” in the insole, which is the material inside of the shoe that makes contact with the foot. If it’s too flat, it “will not absorb impact when you walk” and not “have the proper arch support to [...] ensure you are walking with your natural gait.” That said, too much padding can “change the way you naturally walk, which may lead to back pain.” Look for a supportive insole that’s contoured and well-cushioned while remaining structured to the shape of the foot.
- Sole: The sole, or the bottom of the shoe, is “not as critical as the insole,” Dr. Okubadejo wrote to Bustle — but as with any shoe, it should be thick and textured enough to prevent slipping. Some supportive sandals also have special materials in the sole that further absorb shock.
- Heel: While high heels are notoriously tough on your back, you don’t want your shoe to be totally flat, either. “Shoes with a slight heel are best,” Dr. Okubadejo wrote. “A heel that’s the same height as or lower than the toe of the shoe affects the way your leg and pelvis turn. This will affect your spine and lower back negatively.”
- Upper: Finally, there’s the upper — the fabric that covers the top of the foot — and in the case of sandals, that typically refers to the straps. Look for adjustable or stretchy straps in order to ensure the most secure fit. “The fit has to match your foot size and width,” Dr. Okubadejo wrote. “If sandals are too rigid, they inhibit the natural movement of your feet,” but straps that are too loose “will prevent the foot from gripping the shoe properly.”
Using these criteria and a few of Dr. Okubadejo’s direct recommendations — the first three picks — these are the best sandals to prevent back pain.
Shop The Best Sandals For Back Pain
In a hurry? These are the expert picks for the best sandals if you have back pain:
- The Overall Best, All Things Considered: Vionic Rest Kirra Sandal
- The Best Value: Rockport Ridge Sling Sandal
- The Best Slide Sandal: MEGNYA Orthopedic Slide
- The Best Cork Sandals: CUSHIONAIRE Luna Cork Comfort+ Sandal
- The Best Supportive Flip-Flop: Vionic Tide Casandra Sandals
- The Best Sports Sandals: Skechers On-The-Go 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal
- The Best Wedge Sandals: Skechers Cali Rumblers Sci-Fi Wedge Sandal
- The Best Waterproof Sandals: Birkenstock Gizeh Essentials Sandal
- The Best Budget Flip-Flop: LLSOARSS Orthotic Flip Flops
- The Best Affordable Dressy Sandal: Athlefit Dressy T-Strap Orthopedic Sandals
1. The Overall Best Supportive Sandals
- Also available on Vionic, $60
This is Dr. Okubadejo’s first recommendation for a supportive, pain-reducing sandal. It’s also a fan favorite with over 5,000 ratings, and one of my personal picks from my own closet. In terms of construction, the Vionic Rest Kirra sandal has all of the recommended features for long-term comfort, including an orthotic arch-support footbed, a raised heel, a secure adjustable strap, and a thick, nonslip sole. Unlike so many other orthopedic sandals, though, this pair is sleek and stylish with its triangular leather or suede upper, and even options with perforations for a lace-like appearance.
- Available colors: 14
- Available sizes: 5 — 11 (including select wide options)
One reviewer wrote: “I’ve had chronic back pain for 5 years. No doctor could figure out what was wrong with me. I was looking for cute walking shoes for an upcoming trip because my back pain flares up when I’m walking for 20 min. I came across the Vionic brand and that’s how I found out about orthopedic shoes. I tried these for a day at work and not only did my backpain not flare up, my backpain decreased substantially!”
2. A Slightly Cheaper Pair That’s Still Stylish
- Also available on Rockport, $90
These Dr. Okubadejo-recommended Rockport Ridge sling sandals have an anatomically molded footbed, a thick sole that absorbs shock and improves traction, a microfiber interior lining, and an adjustable ankle sling. On top of all that, they’re still surprisingly stylish: The genuine leather upper has detailing and perforations that look so good, some reviewers have even worn them to weddings. Needless to say, they’re a great all-around value.
- Available colors: 13
- Available sizes: 6 — 11 (including select wide options)
One reviewer wrote: “These are honestly the best pair of shoes I own. I'm sorry the season is changing and I won't be able to wear them again until the spring. I purchased these shoes because I have a true wide foot with no arch and pronation. Also, My back and hip hurts if I stand too long. With these shoes I can walk around the city and back with limited pain.”
3. The Most Supportive Slides
- Also available on Walmart, $33
These MEGNYA slides are Dr. Okubadejo’s third and last recommendation, and it’s easy to see why: Despite the fact that they slide on with ease, they have an adjustable upper for a custom fit, a raised heel with a deep heel cup to support your body at its foundation, and an orthopedic insole that’s a favorite among those with plantar fasciitis or lumbar pain. This pair also features a thicker, flexible, rubber outsole that prevents slipping inside and outside of the house.
- Available colors: 5
- Available sizes: 5 — 11
One reviewer wrote: “I have a complication on my total knee replacement surgery in 2008 and since that time, I was having problem with standing up, back pain, and knee pain (on both knees). As soon as I received the slippers, I have worn it and it helps a lot on my knees and back pain. It is worth the money!”
4. The Affordable Cork Sandals With 50,000+ Reviews
- Also available on Walmart, $30
There are several reasons why these CUSHIONAIRE Luna sandals are a top seller with over 65,000 reviews and a 4.5-star overall rating, and most of them have to do with their supportive, customized fit: For one, the more you wear them, the more the cork footbed molds to the shape of your feet. For another, the vegan upper straps have a soft lining and are adjustable in two separate places. Finally, they come in a wide range of sizes, including half and wide options. Plus, many color options are just $25.
- Available colors: 21
- Available sizes: 5 — 13 (including select wide options)
One reviewer wrote: “I bought these shoes for a college summer program and continued to use them throughout the summer. I hit 10,000 steps almost every day during the summer, so these were used a LOT. I have extremely painful back and joint issues, most likely from some sort of autoimmune disease, so having good support is extremely important. These didn't hurt at all and the support was really good.”
5. A Great Supportive Flip-Flop
- Also available on Vionic, $75
At first glance, these Vionic sandals look a lot like your basic flip-flops — but in terms of comfort and support, there’s nothing basic about them. For one, they have an EVA molded footbed that’s podiatrist-designed to hug your arches for all-day support. For another, the thong strap is soft, so you don’t have to worry about gripping with your toes or getting blisters. Also unlike your average flip-flops, the heel is raised and cupped to support your natural gait.
- Available colors: 16
- Available sizes: 5 — 12
One reviewer wrote: “I love these sandals. They match anything with blue and well... support my feet like no flip-flop ever will. If you are tired of your ankles, knees, hips and back hurting, try a pair. Yes, they are an investment, but not having to go to the Doctor or being in pain is worth EVERY cent.”
6. The Best Sports Sandals
- Also available on Kohl’s, $45
For walking, hiking, touring, and more, there are these Skechers On-The-Go sports sandals. They’ve been called “seriously the most comfortable sandals” and have a durability level that’s “off the charts,” according to reviewers. The all-over straps hug your foot with soft fabric, and the ankle is fully adjustable with Velcro. Last but definitely not least, the high-rebound insole has responsive cushioning for shock absorption, support, and comfort.
- Available colors: 9
- Available sizes: 5 — 12 (including select wide options)
One reviewer wrote: “I had severe leg pain in my right leg and an aggravated arthritic knee from my expensive “orthopedic sandals”. All along I thought it was something triggered by my back, sciatica. A day in the Skerchers — no more leg pain. My podiatrist technician pointed out they have a slight arch, cushioning footbed, and a slight heel — all positives.”
7. The Best Wedge Sandals
- Also available on Kohl’s, $30
If you’re looking for some added height, wedges are often more stable and supportive than traditional heels, because the front of the shoe is also raised. Even though these Skechers sandals offer 2.5 inches of lift, they still help to minimize back pain thanks to the contoured memory foam insoles. Their stretchy straps offer just enough give, so the sandals should hug your feet without feeling too tight.
- Available colors: 2
- Available sizes: 5 — 12 (including wide options)
One reviewer wrote: “I have nerve damage in one leg and severe lower back pain so I have not worn heels in years. I bought these for a wedding and I was pleasantly surprised to see that these were so comfortable that I was able to wear for several hours without any discomfort!! Would recommend to anyone without hesitation. No problems whatsoever. I was even able to dance in them with no issues!”
8. The Best Waterproof Sandals
- Also available on Birkenstock, $50
Birkenstocks are known for their quality, support, and comfort levels — but these toe-post flip-flops combine all of that with waterproof convenience. Reviewers note that the synthetic material is a lot like that of Crocs, so it’s quick-drying, washable, and can handle any amount of moisture. In addition to a supportive, contoured insole and a durable outsole, this pair also has an adjustable strap with a pin buckle for a customized fit.
- Available colors: 2
- Available sizes: 36 — 38
One reviewer wrote: “I have poor arch supports and I needed some form of waterproof sandal to wear while by the beach or working in the yard. They are safe as well with the grip compared to other rubber tongs/sandals. I can walk on tile and have wet feet with these Birkenstocks and I will not slip and fall. For me safety is importance. All I wear now is Birkenstocks. My feet feel real good in them and I recommend them to anyone especially people with poor arch support and back problems. I know they help me.”
9. Best Budget Flip-Flops
If you can’t sink $75 into a pair of flip-flops — even if you really want to — these orthotic sandals are an affordable alternative well worth considering. Their EVA midsoles are biomechanically contoured to hug your foot with extra stability and elevation through the heel in addition to serious arch support. Waterproof rubber soles keep you upright, while the grosgrain woven toe strap promises to feel soft right out of the box. They’re classic, casual, and unassuming: perfect to throw on and go.
- Available colors: 8
- Available sizes: 6 — 11
One reviewer wrote: “I have a lot of issues in my back from a car accident. I can't wear flats can't wear heels can barely stand for more than ten minutes without pain. I bought these for a trip to Hawaii. I wanted something I could put on with a sundress or shorts something comfy but cute and these were that. I wear them as slippers around the house and to the grocery store. I think I should buy a backup pair.”
10. An Affordable Sandal That Looks High-End
These Athlefit sandals look similar to the expert’s top pick, but they’re a more accessible option for people on a budget. The orthopedic sandals’ contoured footbeds include good arch support and a deep heel cup, with massage bubbles and a soft suede finish. Their adjustable ankle straps keep your feet secure — with a smidge of elastic so they have just enough stretch. Add to all that a soft fabric toe post and chic faux leather uppers for a sandal that pretty much does it all.
- Available colors: 7
- Available sizes: 5.5 — 11
One reviewer wrote: “Great value. These sandals are as comfortable as my Vionics and the only difference is the man made material vs. leather. I'll be buying them in more colors.”
Expert:
Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo, M.D., is a board-certified New York City-based spinal and orthopedic surgeon who leads The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care.
This article was originally published on
FAQs
What are the best shoes to wear to avoid back pain? ›
Running shoes are some of the best shoes to wear when experiencing back pain, even if you do not run. These shoes are lightweight and designed with pressure zones within them, so every step is evenly distributed throughout the feet. Over time, that minimizes pressure on the lower back.
What sandals do podiatrists recommend? ›Podiatrists usually recommend sandals with thick soles that have ankle straps and arch support. You'll want to avoid flat sandals with a thin bottom as they're more likely to harm the soles of your feet.
What is the best thing to wear for back pain? ›A popular way to prevent back pain and improving posture is by wearing a back brace. Back braces hold up your back in the best position, preventing strain while you're sitting and standing. Back braces are perfect to wear while you're at work, exercising, and for a variety of other situations.
What shoes do podiatrists recommend for standing all day? ›"Asics Gel-Nimbus shoes are my personal favorite for plantar fasciitis," raves Pidich. "They contain extra cushioning and added support around the arch." They also absorb shock in the heel with their gel panels. Plus, the rounded toe shape creates a spacious toe box for those with wide feet.
What kind of shoes support the spine? ›Orthopedic shoes are shoes that help pain relief. For back pain, these are the following options: Rocker soles (including Joya or Skechers), sports shoes (such as running shoes or tennis shoes with cushioned soles), sandals with toe room and support like Birkenstocks and more.
What shoes to wear for spinal arthritis? ›The Best Shoe Brands for Arthritis
Clark's, Vionic, Orthofeet, and Klogs are some of the brands both recommended by members the CreakyJoints community and approved by the foot experts we talked to. Mephisto, Drew, and Ecco are other good options.
"They're really good for if you have a flat foot or you have arch pain because they have a supportive longitudinal arch. But I would recommend them to most people — unless you have some kind of severe ailment that obviously needs a more personalized approach."
Are Birkenstocks podiatrist approved? ›Birkenstock sandals are podiatrist-approved and highly favored for their built-in arch support and cushioning.
What are orthopedic sandals? ›Orthotic sandals are designed with a very supportive and comfortable footbed, and are usually recommended for feet ailments such as plantar fasciitis (arch/heel pain).
What makes back pain worse? ›Back pain can range from a muscle aching to a shooting, burning or stabbing sensation. Also, the pain can radiate down a leg. Bending, twisting, lifting, standing or walking can make it worse.
What can I buy for severe back pain? ›
- Heating pads or cold packs.
- Specialized pillows.
- Back rollers.
- Electric stimulation units (TENS)
- Massagers.
- Back Braces.
- Acupressure mats.
- Topical treatments.
- Avoid bed rest. When your back hurts, lying down might seem like a good plan. ...
- Don't sleep on your stomach. ...
- Stop lifting heavy things or twisting your back. ...
- Refrain from repetitive bending or stooping. ...
- Avoid sitting for long periods of time. ...
- Avoid certain exercises.
Skechers Arch Fit
Discover the ultimate comfort solution with podiatrist-certified arch support developed using over 20 years of data. Footwear in our Arch Fit collection features a removable, supportive cushioning insole system for a more comfortable walking experience.
“New Balance shoes offer excellent support for the heel, arch, and forefoot,” Tyler Miranda, DPM, a New York-based podiatrist, says. “They also have a wide toe box, which is especially important for people who need extra space to avoid friction and pressure on bunions and hammer toes.”
Why do podiatrists recommend Hoka? ›Are Hokas good for your feet? They're not just great for workouts. Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, a New York City-based podiatrist says that they provide comfort, support and shock absorption, which makes them a good choice for frequent walkers or anyone whose job requires them to stand for the majority of the day.
Are Crocs good for people with bad backs? ›”Crocs are soft, which make people's backs feel better,” says Dr. Frank Cobarrubia, a Bend podiatrist. ”The people who typically claim that their back pain is reduced stand all day.” He likens the benefit of Crocs to that of rubberized mats often used in work area where people stand for long periods of time.
Which shoes are considered orthopedic? ›Orthopaedic shoes are shoes that are specifically designed to support or accommodate the mechanics and structure of the foot, ankle and leg and they have a number of medically beneficial features and functions that separate them from everyday footwear.
Can shoes fix back pain? ›When it comes to back pain, the footwear you choose has a strong influence. Choosing footwear that is supportive, comfortable or recommended by doctors can help to reduce the amount of pain you feel day to day. Wear high heels and flip flops sparingly, and reach for supportive tennis shoes to elevate the pain.
What is the best sleeping position for arthritis in the spine? ›Sleep on your back
The position in which you sleep can be one of the most important factors in managing back pain at night. Sleeping on your back is often the ideal position to reduce back pain, according to the National Sleep Foundation.
People with osteoarthritis in the lumbar spine may want to avoid deep bending at the waist or deep twisting. People with cervical spine osteoarthritis should avoid putting extra pressure on the head and neck, such as doing as headstands in yoga classes.
What exercises should I avoid with arthritis in my spine? ›
High impact exercises, such as jogging and high-impact aerobics, can put pressure on a disc and cause more injury. Also, avoid movements that cause twisting, such as golf, as it can up back pain pressure. Try this instead: Water aerobics or yoga.
What brand is as good as Birkenstock? ›Best Birkenstock Alternatives 2022: Tevas, L.L. Bean Sandals and Clogs – Rolling Stone. Music.
Does Birkenstock make orthopedic sandals? ›Custom Molded Foot Orthotics and Custom Molded Birkenstock® Sandals are biomechanical medical appliances designed to align the foot and ankle into the most anatomically efficient position. The custom orthotic helps to re-align the foot by redirecting and reducing certain motion that takes place during the gait cycle.
Why do my Birkenstocks hurt? ›It can take time for your foot to adjust to the contours of the footbed, and for the cork/latex to flex and mould. Ideally an hour or two at a time until you feel comfortable to increase to a longer period.
Why do doctors wear Birkenstocks? ›So they help ensure a professional appearance and convey a sense of competence and seriousness. In many medical professions, closed shoes or clogs with heel straps are mandatory for good reason. This prevents the foot from sliding out of the heel cup and provides firm support.
Are Crocs good for your feet? ›They lack heel support
“Crocs are backless and do not support or control the heel,” Weiser adds. As a result, you could develop heel pain and tendonitis of the heel. The lack of heel support can make it more difficult to maintain stability as you walk, so you may be more likely to trip or fall.
Unlike their foot-unfriendly cousin, the flip-flop, they offer enough support for you to walk around 'in em all day long... without messing with your feet, back, and body. “When a patient comes in wearing a Teva, I give them a big thumbs up," says podiatrist Doug Tumen, DPM, FACFAS.
What are the disadvantages of orthopedic shoes? ›Wearing orthopedic shoes can feel cumbersome and restrict your foot's natural range of motion, which can make it difficult to perform certain activities and cause fatigue. People who don't need orthopedic shoes may be tempted to buy them based on the belief that they will improve their foot health.
Why are Vionic sandals good? ›They reduce pronation and correct abnormal foot positioning. These shoes have been shown to reduce foot, knee and lower back pain. Podiatrists can now prescribe Vionic shoes for conditions like plantar fasciitis. They provide extra support to decrease pain and inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament.
What is the #1 reason for back pain? ›Strains and sprains: Back strains and sprains are the most common cause of back pain. You can injure muscles, tendons or ligaments by lifting something too heavy or not lifting safely. Some people strain their back by sneezing, coughing, twisting or bending over.
What are the 3 categories of back pain? ›
- Acute back pain happens suddenly and usually lasts a few days to a few weeks.
- Subacute back pain can come on suddenly or over time and lasts 4 to 12 weeks.
- Chronic back pain may come on quickly or slowly and lasts longer than 12 weeks and occurs daily.
“Red flags” include pain that lasts more than 6 weeks; pain in persons younger than 18 years or older than 50 years; pain that radiates below the knee; a history of major trauma; constitutional symptoms; atypical pain (eg, that which occurs at night or that is unrelenting); the presence of a severe or rapidly ...
Is it better to sit or lay down with lower back pain? ›If you're experiencing back pain when sitting, your impulse may be to lie down and then try to slowly progress back to sitting, says Dr. Atlas. But this is the wrong approach. You should lie down to relieve the pain, but the goal should be not to return to sitting, but rather to regain your ability to stand and move.
What to do when your back hurts so bad you can't walk? ›- rest.
- hot or cold therapy.
- over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
- gentle exercises to stretch and loosen tight muscles.
- Use cold packs to help with pain and hot packs to increase blood flow and help you heal.
- Do not lay down all day. ...
- Use over-the-counter and prescription pain relievers for severe pain as directed by your doctor.
- Get physical therapy to help strengthen muscles and improve your posture.
Walking, swimming, and biking may all help reduce back pain. Start with short sessions and build up over time. If your back is hurting, try swimming, where the water supports your body. Avoid any strokes that twist your body.
Do podiatrist recommend Skechers arch Fit? ›Skechers Glide Step shoe
This lace-up shoe is made of breathable mesh and has a removable Skechers Arch Fit insole. It comes recommended by Evans and even has a podiatrist-designed shape to give you the most comfortable fit for all-day wear.
Since 1825, Clarks has put comfort first when designing sophisticated shoes for women, men, and kids. All of their shoes are built with Ortholite cushioning, which helps reduce foot strain and absorbs impact. They're also breathable and flexible, and use sustainable, recycled materials.
Can a podiatrist fit you for shoes? ›Doctors of podiatric medicine are health care professionals trained for both palliative and surgical care of the foot and ankle. They also are fully qualified to recommend selection of the right pair of shoes, or address other aspects of foot health, for all members of the family.
What sandals do Podiatrists recommend? ›Podiatrists usually recommend sandals with thick soles that have ankle straps and arch support. You'll want to avoid flat sandals with a thin bottom as they're more likely to harm the soles of your feet.
What do Podiatrists say about zero drop shoes? ›
"The most commonly advocated benefit is that barefoot or zero drop shoes encourage less dependency on shoe gear and more reliance on strong muscles of the feet and legs, which in theory will help improve body posture, stride, and performance overall," says Dr. Cunha.
Why are Birkenstocks so good for your feet? ›Our Contoured Footbed Encourages Foot Health
The Birkenstock footbed is made of resilient cork/latex and is shaped to create a healthy walking environment for your feet. Additionally, the cork/latex blend is pliable and reacts to natural body warmth.
Resultantly, the researchers concluded that running in Hoka One One or other maximalist running shoes may increase the risk of injury due to the fact that running in them subjected the legs to higher and faster forces and altered foot and ankle motion.
Why do people love Hoka so much? ›“It's a comfort thing but also a form thing. People are wearing them because it's stylish and trendy.” It's true that, as unlikely as it may have seemed a few years ago, Hokas are stylish and trendy.
What is the big deal with Hoka? ›Hoka's bulky silhouette helped it stand out with marathoners. “That chunky heel says to people 'that's the shoe I can wear and run long distance and not get hurt,' Sole said. As Hoka became popular with marathoners, more casual runners began to see them in the wild and opted to buy the shoes.
What type of shoes do you think would be likely to cause back pain? ›Studies suggest that unstable shoes—like flip-flops—can lead to low back pain. Podiatrists agree that footwear that's less than supportive can contribute to back discomfort. Dr. Velimir Petkov, D.P.M., of Premier Podiatry in Clifton, NJ, explains how something as simple as flip-flops can trigger back pain.
Does my back hurt because of my shoes? ›If you choose shoes that don't offer adequate support or place too much pressure on one part of your foot, the vertebrae in your spine may soon become misaligned. Misalignments, called "subluxations" by chiropractors, cause back and neck pain, muscle tension, spasms, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
How do you make shoes not hurt the back of your feet? ›- Get proper fit with insoles. Insoles will add a slight lift to your foot, decreasing the surface area in contact with the back of your heel. ...
- Double socks. ...
- Use moleskin. ...
- Visit the cobbler. ...
- Use heat. ...
- Use duct tape. ...
- Use Custom Made Insoles for Better Fit and Comfort.
While running or walking shoes are typically the best option for back pain, there are some sandals, boots, or other shoes that provide the right cushioning and support. Since there's a variety of shoes, there's also a big range of prices, so you could expect to pay anywhere from $40 to $160 for a high-quality pair.
Can wearing sandals cause lower back pain? ›Flip flops and many other sandals lack proper support for your feet and lower back in a number of ways. For one, your foot is not really “contained” and therefore, you tend to take shorter steps which alters your gait and shifts the way your hips move. This can cause strain and misalignment of the hips and lower back.
Are Crocs good for lower back pain? ›
”Crocs are soft, which make people's backs feel better,” says Dr. Frank Cobarrubia, a Bend podiatrist. ”The people who typically claim that their back pain is reduced stand all day.” He likens the benefit of Crocs to that of rubberized mats often used in work area where people stand for long periods of time.
Are orthopedic shoes good for back pain? ›Whether your gait abnormalities are due to genetics or you developed the condition after years of wearing inappropriate footwear, orthopedic shoe inserts often can help relieve your back pain.
Are flat shoes better for your back? ›Worst: Flat Shoes
This impact pressure builds over time and your hips and lower back take the brunt of it. The lack of padding and arch support will also cause the ligaments and tendons in your feet to overstretch. This all cumulates to produce more problems for your back and can lead to overall body pain.
Flip-flops may not only provoke your sciatica, but they're also associated with a number of foot and ankle problems. Because of this, it's a smart idea to give up flip-flops altogether.
Is walking Barefoot bad for your back? ›Walking for long periods of time on hard surfaces with no shoes can lead to increased callus growth that can become painful over time, but can also lead to back pain due to a lack of shock absorption at your feet. The hard shock of every step can reverberate to your spine.
How do I stop my feet from hurting when I stand all day? ›- Walk whenever you get a chance. If you don't have to stand in the exact same spot, try to walk around a bit. ...
- Elevate your feet at break time. ...
- Wear compression stockings. ...
- Wear good shoes. ...
- Wear arch supports or custom foot orthotics.
Shoes rub heels and ankles due to the friction created between the lining of shoes and the skin on the achilles and ankle. This friction is created when walking and is exacerbated by factors including sock material and thickness, shape of a shoe's topline, material of shoe lining, and shoe tightness.
How do I stop my back from hurting when I walk? ›- Get better footwear. Low arches and flat feet can lead to lower back pain when walking. ...
- Practice good walking posture. The way you walk can also lead to lower back pain. ...
- Physical therapy. ...
- Massage therapy. ...
- Yoga.
Multiple studies have compared the biomechanics of walking/running gait in individuals with and without low back pain, with mixed findings. This systematic review/meta-analysis demonstrated that compared to back-healthy people, people with persistent low back pain walk more slowly and take smaller steps.
Can shoes affect sciatica? ›Wearing the wrong type of shoes can definitely make your sciatica worse. Two of the worst kinds of footwear for sciatica are high heels and shoes with no cushion (including flip flops.) Instead, wear shoes that provide support for your feet.