Orthopaedic Footwear UK
Orthopaedic Footwear
How Can It Help?
Orthopaedic footwear is customised footwear with the aim to provide support, comfort, and accommodate feet for individuals with various foot and lower limb conditions or deformities. Orthotic footwear is designed to treat specific orthopaedic issues, correct alignment, and enhance overall foot health.
The footwear comes in all kinds of styles and can accommodate a wide range of foot conditions, from common issues like calluses, bunions, and hammertoes to more serious conditions such a Charcot-Marie-tooth, arthritis, and diabetes.
Common Features of Orthopaedic footwear
Arch support – Orthopaedic shoes often incorporate built-in arch support to help maintain the natural arch of the foot. This feature is beneficial for individuals with conditions like flat feet or fallen arches.
Cushioning – These shoes typically have extra cushioning in the insole and midsole to provide shock absorption and reduce pressure on the feet. This is important for individuals with conditions such as arthritis or plantar fasciitis.
Firm Heel counter – A firm heel counter provides stability to the heel and helps control excessive motion, promoting correct foot alignment. This is beneficial for individuals with issues such as overpronation or supination.
Adjustable fastenings – Orthopaedic shoes often feature adjustable closures, such as Velcro straps or laces, to ensure a secure and customizable fit. This is useful for individuals with conditions that cause foot swelling or those who have difficulty with traditional shoe fastenings due to upper limb deformities or cognitive issues.
Made to measure – Some orthopaedic shoes are designed with extra depth to accommodate orthotic devices such as an Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) or for a brace for drop foot for example or to provide additional room for individuals with conditions that require more space to accommodate excessive swelling in the foot for vascular issues or lymphedema for example.
Diabetic footwear – Orthopaedic shoes may include features suitable for individuals with diabetes, such as seamless interiors to reduce the risk of irritation and ulcers, and soft, non-binding materials.