Foot Arthritis

Arthritis is a common disease that can affect the joints, skin, and various internal organs of the body. Although it is often thought to be a disease for the elderly, the majority of the 4.5 million Canadians currently living with arthritis are under 65 years old.

When arthritis affects the feet, a consultation with a Canadian Certified Pedorthist – C. Ped (C) – can be helpful. Canadian Certified Pedorthists help patients retain and enhance mobility through proper footcare, suitable footwear selections, and/or custom-made foot orthotics, where appropriate.

Pedorthic Pointers for Patients

To alleviate pain caused by arthritis, Canadian Certified Pedorthists recommend selecting footwear featuring:

  • Rigid rocker soles (the curve at the toe area of a shoe) to decrease stress on the ball of the foot and provide a more efficient push-off

  • Soft leather uppers or materials that will mold around deformities or sensitive areas

  • Wide, deep, square toe-boxes with no seams over hammer toes or other sensitive areas to avoid pressure on painful joints

  • Velcro closures or elastic laces to eliminate the need to lace up a shoe, if fine dexterity in the fingers is difficult

  • Heels lower than 1″ or 2.5 cm. Avoiding high heels in general would also help alleviate pain.

If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort, you should talk to your doctor or book an appointment with a Canadian Certified Pedorthist for pedorthic management including orthopaedic footwear, shoe selection guidance and custom-made foot orthotics. Click here to find a Pedorthist near you.