If you live with arthritis in your feet, you already know how uncomfortable every step can be. But what many people don’t realise is how much their footwear might be making things worse. Unsupportive or poorly fitted shoes can increase pain, reduce mobility, and even speed up joint damage.
In this blog, we’ll explore how bad footwear affects arthritic feet — and what to look for instead to ease pain and support long-term joint health.
How Bad Footwear Makes Arthritis Worse
The wrong shoes can quietly undermine your foot health. Here’s how:
1. Increased Joint Load
Shoes without proper shock absorption send more force into already painful joints. Arthritic feet need protection from impact — not extra pressure.
2. Poor Foot Alignment
Narrow shoes, heels, and unsupportive flats can force your feet into unnatural positions. This puts strain on key joints in the toes, midfoot, and ankle, worsening pain over time.
3. Lack of Adaptability for Deformities
Arthritis often causes structural changes like bunions or hammertoes. If your shoes don’t accommodate these changes, they can rub, squeeze, and increase joint stress.
4. Reduced Stability
Shoes with thin soles, worn tread, or flimsy construction don’t give you the balance or support you need. This can lead to instability, fatigue, and even falls.
Signs Your Footwear Might Be Causing Problems
- You notice increased pain after standing or walking
- Your shoes rub, pinch, or leave marks on your feet
- You’ve had your shoes for a long time and the cushioning feels flat
- The soles wear down unevenly, affecting your posture and gait
- Your feet feel better in certain shoes
What to Look for in Shoes for Arthritic Feet
Replacing unsupportive shoes with arthritis-friendly footwear can be a game-changer. Look for shoes that offer:
- Wide toe boxes to avoid crowding and pressure
- Ample cushioning for impact protection
- Stable soles and good grip to help with balance
- Arch support to reduce strain through the midfoot
- Rocker soles to help you roll through your step and reduce toe bending
👉 Explore my blog on the Best Sandals for Arthritic Feet – Comfortable, Supportive Picks for Pain Relief
** Innersoles can be a cheap alternative to buying new shoes these can be put inside existing shoes to provide support, improve alignment and off load your feet.
It’s Not Just About Footwear
While footwear plays a big role, there are so many other things that can contribute. Learning to manage your activity levels, make sensible exercise choices, manage weight, nutrition and much more.
These may all seem like little changes but they make a big difference when you address all of them.
👉 See this blog Arthritic Feet – How to Best Manage Pain, Stiffness and Everyday Challenges for more information.
Final Thoughts
Arthritic feet are sensitive — and the wrong shoes can make them even more so. If you’ve been putting up with worn-out or ill-fitting footwear, it might be time for a change. Look for comfort, stability, and support above all else.
The right shoes won’t cure arthritis, but they can absolutely help you move with less pain, more confidence, and better long-term joint health.
Take care, Helen
Helen Manders BSc (Hons) MCSP HCPC
Chartered Physiotherapist Since 2001
P.S. Don’t forget I’m here if you need help and support. Click here to see how I can support you.
Don’t forget the FREE Masterclass connecting the dots between your posture and your foot pain. Click to learn more and enrol. See you there.
