Mash-Up Podiatry Recommended Shoe List!

 

Podiatry Recommended

2022-2023 Winter Mash-Up Shoe List

What makes these shoes 'podiatrist approved' is that they all meet 3 of the 4 criteria for what makes a comfortable shoe:

1. A thick, rigid, and non-flexible sole. A shoe that has a thick, rigid, and non-flexible sole allows less motion through painful joints, which means more foot comfort. The concept is counter-intuitive but less motion means less pain, less strain, and less damage to the joints and will help slow the progression of bunions, hammertoes, and arthritic joint changes. 

2. Wide toe box. Pointy-toed shoes cause bunions, hammertoes, corns,  and ingrown toenails (to name a few!). 

3. Rearfoot control. All of these shoes and boots have rearfoot control, which helps to decrease mechanical strain on tendons, and ligaments and also increases strain on your knees, hips, and lower back. 

4. Arch Support.  Many of these examples will not accommodate a full-length functional orthotic, but most will allow you to wear at least a good over-the-counter insert or a thinner dress orthotic. Arch support is important to help slow the progression of bunions and hammertoes as decreases strain on your knees, hips, and lower back. 

Fredy Platform Boot Marc Fisher LTD

This is a great option for anyone who knows that they can wear heels comfortably. Boots with more rearfoot height are especially good for anyone who has a history of previous Achilles tendonitis.

Dansko Professional Clogs 

The Dansko Professional Clog is the classic 'go-to' shoe for many doctors and nurses. They are great for working long hours on retail or concrete surfaces. They work best if you have feet that are relatively 'straight' with no big 'bumps' such as bunions or a high arch. The best way to figure out if these work for you is to got to the store and try them on. I do not recommend that your order these online unless you already know they work for you and you know your proper size. 

MATISSE

GAVIN PLATFORM BOOT

MATISSE

RONAN CHELSEA BOOT

The above two boots are going to work better on someone who knows that they can handle a heavier or chunkier shoe. I would not recommend these for anyone with drop-foot or any muscle weakness. 

Steve Madden Klayton Black Boot

A solid boot like this used to be my favorite choice for a boot that I could dress up but still be comfortable wearing for hours. As I've gotten older, I cannot tolerate this height anymore, so I do not recommend anything like this unless you know that you are comfortable and safe wearing heels this high. 

Jeffrey Campbell

Book Platform Apron Toe Derby

I love the look of these oxfords! Only consider something like this if you know that you can handle the 'chunkier' and heavier shoes. 

Wonders

Talla Loafer Wedge (Women)

This is a lovely choice for a low wedge and will most likely work best for someone with a more narrow foot and forefoot. I would not recommend this one for someone with painful bunions or hammertoes.

Alegria Paloma

This is a fabulous choice for anyone with a history of heel pain, metatarsalgia, osteoarthritis, and plantar plate issues (to name a few!). I would recommend that you try these on at the store and not purchase your first pair online. 

Kaila Shoes (Sundance)

Woven Naylor Sandals (Sundance)

Rowena Sandals (Sundance)

Living in Arizona, I felt it was important to include several sandals/wedges on the list as these can be appropriate to wear during the winter months. I have a patient who introduced me to the Sundance shoes and I was very impressed with how sturdy and well-made they are. 

Baxter Shoes (Sundance)

This is a great example of a solid Oxford which should feel comfortable for long hours on your feet. I love the chunky sole and color!

Kinetic Breakthru Conquest Boots (Sundance)

Iris Track Boots (Sundance)

These are good examples of sturdy boots that aren't your typical REI look, which isn't bad but these are definitely more stylish. 

Xelero Steadfast Hiker (men's)

Xelero Steadfast Walker (Women's)

Xelero Genesis XPS (Women's)

Xelero Heidi Deep Ocean

Xelero Heidi Black Ice (Women's)

All of the above Xelero's are great shoes! They all have a thick, rigid, and very protective sole that is perfect for anyone with a history of plantar fasciitis as well as any forefoot or midfoot pain such as metatarsalgia, plantar plate issues, a history of stress fractures, osteoarthritis, tendonitis, and sesamoiditis. 

Hoka Bondi

My husband loves his Hoka Bondi shoes to the point that he is now even golfing in them! They are great for anyone with heel pain as well as knee, hip, and lower back pain. The only drawback to the Hokas is that, if you are super active (like my husband is!) they will wear out sooner than most other types of shoes such as New Balance or Xelero. I have to replace my husband's Hokas every 4-5 months, which can get expensive.  

Drew Surge (Men's)

Drew Flare (Women's)

These Drew shoes are the gold standard (like the New Balance 928 or 1540s) for anyone who needs a sturdy and comfortable all-day walking shoe. I own the Drew Flare and wear them with my full-length custom-molded orthotics and they are the most comfortable shoe that I own. 

Apex Women's Walker

Apex Women's Trail Runner

Apex Men's Trail Runner

The above Apex are great options for hiking or walking shoes. They also have a rigid and supportive sole and they can accommodate a custom-molded orthotic. 

Apex Men's Ariya Moc Toe

This is a nice option for all-day comfort for someone who wants a more traditional dress shoe. 

FitFlop Shuv Soft Pink Slippers

Alegria Chillery Smoke

I have not tried the above two slippers myself, but they certainly look super comfortable!

For more articles on painful feet and proper shoes, please check out my articles:

My feet hurt: Top 10 things to do to alleviate foot pain today.

My Feet Hurt!

Shoe recommendations for patients recovering from Lisfranc's fractures: Shoe Recommendations for patients recovering from Lisfranc's fractures

Thank you for reading! 

Dr. Cathleen A. McCarthy

:)

Autumn 2019 Podiatrist Recommended Shoes at Dillard's!

Autumn 2019

Podiatrist Recommended Shoes at Dillard's.

Did you see me cruising through Dillard's yesterday? I was the woman walking around checking all the shoes and even taking pictures of some of the shoes on my cell phone. Actually, I am quite surprised that they don't kick me out of there on the off chance I am was an industrial spy! 

Here are some recommendations from my latest trip to Dillard's at Fashion Square in Scottsdale where a lovely salesperson names Charles helped me. 

Gentle Souls

Kenneth Cole
Noa Leather Flats

This shoe might not look like it, but the sole is very rigid and, therefore, much more supportive. The most important thing about a shoe is that it must have a thick, rigid and non-flexible sole because less motion means less pain, less inflammation and less "wear and tear" of the joints. The shoe is not perfect as it has no arch support and the toe box is a bit too tapered for my taste, but this may be a good choice for some patients. 

Jambu
Naomi Wedge Sandal

Going into Autumn, this may only be a good choice for those of us in Arizona and the warmer climates who don't have to worry about rain, slush and snow. I really liked this Jambu because it has the thick, rigid and non-flexible sole which is what makes a shoe more comfortable and protective of foot structures such as joints, ligaments and tendons. 

Dr. Marten's
Farrah Chunky Glitter Boots

The Dr. Marten's boot is a great choice for students heading back to school. They are uber-comfortable, sturdy and even sort of cool. I love that Dr. Marten's are coming out in creative colors and even with some bling. I also love that this is a boot that will accommodate a functional or dress orthotic for better arch support. 

Kork-Ease
Shirome

Obviously, the Kork-Ease Shirome will not be for everyone, but if you know that you can wear a heel of the height comfortably, then this may be a good choice for a dress boot.

Michael Kors
Cosmo Leopard Print

I purchased this shoe and love it! I can wear my dress heat-molded insert with it for better arch support and I find it is very comfortable. I was pleasantly surprised to see that Dillard's has many different designers who have their own versions of what I call these "blinged-out sneakers." 

Antonio Melani

I love that the sole of this dress shoe is so rigid (and therefore supportive and protective). The only issue I have with these shoes is that the toe box is tapered and a bit narrow, but this may be a good choice for someone with a narrow foot. 

Uggs
Fluff Yeah Neon Slides

I love that these Uggs come in so many bright and cheerful colors. The thick, rigid and non-flexible sole makes them a very supportive and comfortable choice for bedroom slipper. 

Cole Han

American Classic

This is an excellent choice for a men's dress shoe as they have a rigid and non-flexible sole and they can also accommodate a men's dress orthotic for better arch support. 

Dansko 
Paisley Suede Waterproof Sneakers

I think that this is a great looking shoe and it has an excellent and supportive sole with a wide toe box. It will accommodate a custom-molded orthotic for better arch support. 

Alegria
Paloma

The Alegria Paloma is an oldie but a goodie! It has a supportive sole and wide toe box and will accommodate a thinner dress orthotic. They also come in creative colors and designs.

Antonio Melani
Airla Casual Slip-On

This is another example of one of the fancier "sneakers" that are coming out this Autumn. I love the thick, rigid and non-flexible sole which is what makes the shoe so comfortable. This may not be the best choice for anyone with a high instep or a "bump" on the top of the middle of their arch as the strap will cause too much pressure which will be uncomfortable. 

Birkenstock 
Buckley
(for bedroom slippers)

If the Rx Crocs don't work for you as a bedroom slipper, this Birk Buckley is another great option for a slipper to wear around the house. 

Gianna Bini
Troye Rainbow Rhinestone Embellished 
Chunky Lace-Up Sneakers

What's not to love about this shoe? It's funky, chunky and cool and more importantly - it's comfortable!

Patricia Nash
Milano Leather Wedge Sneakers

This is another great option for someone who is looking for a slightly dressed-up look for their sneakers. It will also accommodate a dress or functional orthotic. 

These are just a few of the great choices I found at Dillard's at Fashion Square in Scottsdale this past weekend. I hope you have good luck finding a shoe that is suits your aesthetic taste AND feels great!

Thank you for reading the blog!

Dr. Cathleen A. McCarthy

:)

For more information, check my other articles:

My Feet Hurt! Top 10 things to do today to alleviate foot pain:

http://podiatryshoereview.blogspot.com/2012/05/my-feet-hurt-top-ten-things-relieve.html

Shoe recommendations for patients recovering from Lisfranc's joint injuries. 

http://podiatryshoereview.blogspot.com/2012/04/podiatrist-shoe-recommendations-for.html

Clarks's Sandals - Podiatry Approved! !

Clarks Reedly Salene Wedge Sandal

Podiatrist Recommended

This Clark's sandal is my new favorite summer shoe! What's great about this sandal is that it meets the 3 of the 4 criteria required for a shoe to be excellent. Most importantly, it has a thick, rigid and non-flexible sole, which is the most important aspect of a shoe. It's counterintuitive, but less motion through joints means less pain, less inflammation, and less damage. It also has a relatively wide toe box and decent (but not excellent) rearfoot control. The one thing this sandal doesn't have is arch support but despite that I still find this to be an incredibly comfortable shoe.  

This Sandal is Recommended for People with:

* Hallux Limitus (limited range of motion through the 1st toe joint)

* Functional Hallux Limitus (if you're my patient, you probably know what this is!)

* Hallux Rigidus (no motion through the 1st toe joint)

* Mild to Moderate Osteoarthritis 

* Mild Rheumatoid Arthritis (check with your podiatrist first)

* Mild Metatarsalgia

* Mild Sesamoiditis

* Mild Capsulitis

* Mild Morton's Neuroma

* Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain)

* History of previous Lisfranc's Injury (check with your podiatrist first)

* Achilles Tendonitis 

This Sandal is Not Recommended for Patients with:

* Diabetes

* Peripheral Neuropathy (Nerve Damage)

* Peripheral Arterial Disease (Poor Circulation)

* Lymphedema

* Severe Over-Pronation 

* Ankle Instability (you need more ankle support than this shoe offers)

* Drop Foot

* History of Foot Ulcerations

* Severe Hammertoes

* Moderate to Severe Bunions & Tailor's Bunions

I hope that this was helpful! For more information, please refer to these articles:

Shoe Recommendations for Patients Recovering from Lisfranc's Injuries:

http://podiatryshoereview.blogspot.com/2012/04/podiatrist-shoe-recommendations-for.html

My Feet Hurt! Top 20 Things to do to Alleviate Foot Pain Today:

http://podiatryshoereview.blogspot.com/2012/05/my-feet-hurt-top-ten-things-relieve.html

Hope you have a wonderful day!

Dr. Cathleen A. McCarthy

:)

Nike Air Monarch - Podiatrist's Recommendation.

Nike Air Monarch 

Podiatrist's Recommendation for Men's Exercise Shoe

The Nike Air Monarch is an excellent choice for a men's exercise shoe because it meets the four criteria for what a shoe must have to be comfortable and keep your more active with less chance of injury to your feet and ankles. The Nike Air Monarch is not appropriate for hiking on trails as you will need a trail hiking shoe, but the Nike Air Monarch is a perfect go-to shoe for general activities, walking and the gym. 

The 4 criteria needed for a shoe to be excellent are:

1. Thick, rigid and non-flexible sole. Any shoe with a flexible sole will allow too much motion through joints that may be compromised by underlying biomechanical foot issues, previous injuries and arthritic joint damage. It is counterintuitive but all shoes need to have rigid and non-flexible soles so as to protect the joints of the foot, which will then translate into less pain and joint damage. A rigid sole will also prevent the formation of bunions, hammertoes, tendon strain and osteoarthritis. 

2. Wide toe box. A wider toe box means less pressure on the toes, which will slow the progression of bunions, hammertoes, corns, ingrown toenails and even toenail fungus. In my opinion, it is impossible to get rid of toenail fungus if you are wearing tight-fitting shoes because it is injury (even microtrauma) to the toenails that is what allows the fungal spores to set up house in the nail bed. 

3. Rearfoot Control. Shoes that do not have rearfoot control force you to grip down your toes to stay in the shoe, which then promotes hammertoes, tendon strain as well as more strain on the knees, hips and lower back. If you have rearfoot issues such as Achilles tendonitis, Posterior Tibial or Peroneal tendonitis, it is very important that your shoes have rearfoot control because less motion gives the tendons a chance to heal. 

4. It can accommodate a custom-molded orthotic or a good over the counter insert for more arch support. Arch support will decrease strain on the ankles, knees, hips and lower back. It will also help decrease arthritic changes to the Lisfranc's joint and help support the joint for anyone who has had a previous injury to the Lisfranc's joint. 

This shoe is recommended for patients with:

*Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain)

*Mild Achilles Tendonitis

*Posterior Tibial Tendonitis

*Peroneal Tendonitis

*History of previous Lisfranc's Injury

*Hallux Rigidus 

*Hallux Limitus

*Functional Hallux Limitus

*Osteoarthritis

*Morton's Neuroma

*Metatarsalgia

*Capsulitis

*Plantar Plate Injuries

*Hammertoes

*Mild to Moderate Bunions 

*Tailor's Bunions

*Corns & Calluses 

*Ingrown Toenails

*Over-Pronation

*Hypermobility & Ligament Laxity

*Ankle Instability 

This shoe is not recommended for patients with: 

*Charcot Foot

*Lymphedema

*Excessive Swelling

Check with your podiatrist if you have: 

*Rheumatoid Arthritis

*Diabetes

*History of Ulcerations 

*Drop Foot (this shoe should be able to accommodate a drop-foot plate or AFO, which is a custom-molded brace) 

*Peripheral Neuropathy (nerve damage) 

*Peripheral Arterial Disease (poor circulation) 

For more information, check these articles:

Top 10 things to alleviate foot pain today. 

http://podiatryshoereview.blogspot.com/2017/07/the-basics-10-steps-to-alleviating-foot.html

Shoe recommendations for patients recovering from Lisfranc's Injuries. 

http://podiatryshoereview.blogspot.com/2012/04/podiatrist-shoe-recommendations-for.html

I hope this was helpful! 

Dr. Cathleen A. McCarthy 

:)

Podiatrist's Review of Hoka Bondi 5 & Tor Summit.

Hoka One One 

Two Excellent Podiatrist Recommended Shoes

Hoka One One Bondi 5 Running Shoe

Hoka One One Tor Summit Waterproof Hiking Shoe

These two Hoka One One shoes are an excellent choice for most patients with finicky feet. What makes these two shoes so good are that they both meet the 4 criteria that a shoe needs to be comfortable:

1. A thick, rigid sole with no motion or flexibility. Less motion through painful or sore joints means less inflammation, less swelling and less damage to the joints. All of this translates into less pain! 

2. A wide toebox, which puts less pressure on toes which stops or slows the progression of bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, corns. 

3. Rearfoot control. If you are walking in shoes without rearfoot control you are scrunching down your toes to stay in the shoe and that promotes hammertoes, bunions, tired leg syndrome as well as knee, hip and lower back discomfort. 

4. Arch support. Both of these shoes can accommodate custom-molded orthotics or a good over-the-counter arch supports, which helps prevent knee, hip and lower back discomfort as well as to and slow the progression of bunions, hammertoes, and tendonitis.  

These shoes are recommended for patients with:

*Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain)

*Mild to moderate bunions

*Hammertoes

*Morton's Neuromas

*Metatarsalgia

*Capsulitis

*Sesamoiditis

*Hallux Limitus

*Functional Hallux Limitus

*Hallux Rigidus

*Osteoarthritis

*Peroneal Tendonitis (wear with orthotics or arch support) 

*PT Tendonitis (wear with orthotics or arch support) 

*Mild Achilles Tendonitis

*History of Lisfranc's Injuries (wear with orthotics or arch support) 

*Plantar Plate Issues   

These shoes are not recommended for patients with:

*Diabetes with history of Ulcerations

*Charcot Foot

*Drop Foot 

*Severe Achilles Tendonitis (you need a shoe with less cushion and more stability - like a New Balance 928 or 1540)

*Not for Geriatric patients with muscle weakness, instability or severe balance issues (they need a lighter shoe with more stability such as New Balance 813 with velcro strapping).

Check with your podiatrist to see if these shoes are appropriate for you if you have: 

*Rheumatoid Arthritis

*Diabetes

For more information, please refer to these other articles:

Shoe recommendations for patients recovering from Lisfranc's injuries

http://podiatryshoereview.blogspot.com/2012/04/podiatrist-shoe-recommendations-for.html

The basics - top 10 things to do to alleviate foot pain today.
http://podiatryshoereview.blogspot.com/2017/07/the-basics-10-steps-to-alleviating-foot.html

I hope this was helpful! 

Dr. Cathleen McCarthy

:)