DANSKO THEA
The Dansko Thea is a comfortable wedge heel for patients with certain foot types. What makes it so comfortable is that it has a thick, rigid sole that offers protection for the foot joints. If you have severe Hallux Limitus or Rigidus (limited range of motion at the 1st toe joint), this may not be the shoe for you. If you have mild to moderate Hallux Limitus, this sandal may be perfect for you as it will not allow any motion across the 1st toe joint, which allows for increased comfort and it may stop or slow the progression of the injury/deformity.
The Dansko Thea also has very good forefoot, midfoot and rearfoot control, provided by the straps, that helps with biomechanical control of the foot structures. The arch support is not excellent but it is adequate for most patients. I highly recommend that if you purchase a Dansko sandal, make sure you get one that has rearfoot strapping. If you don't have rearfoot strapping, you have to grip your toes down to stay in the shoes, which causes more mechanical strain to your foot and ankle structures as well as your knees, hips and lower back.
This Shoe is Recommended For Patients with:
*Mild Hallux Limitus (Decreased motion of the 1st toe joint)
*Mild Osteoarthritis
*Mild Achilles Tendonitis
*Mild Haglund's Deformity
*Mild Hypermobility
*Mild Tendonitis
*Previous (but healed) Lisfranc's Fracture or Injury (Please check with your doctor)
*Mild Bunions
*Mild Tailor's Bunion
*Mild Hammertoes
*Capsulitis of the toe joints
*Metatarsalgia
*Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain)
*Mild Over-Pronation
This Shoe is NOT Recommended for Patients with:
* Diabetes
*Peripheral Arterial Disease (Poor Circulation)
*Peripheral Neuropathy (Nerve Damage)
*Charcot Foot
*Moderate to Severe Hallux Limitus/Rigidus (Decreased or no motion of the 1st toe joint)
*Severe Fat Pad Atrophy (these patients need more cushion - try the Naot Paris)
*Severe Over-Pronation
*Severe Hypermobility
*Severe Ligament Laxity
*History of Ulcerations
I hope this has been helpful.
Dr. Cathleen A. McCarthy
:)