{"id":720,"date":"2026-05-26T18:07:45","date_gmt":"2026-05-26T18:07:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/relocationtimess.com\/?p=720"},"modified":"2026-05-26T18:07:45","modified_gmt":"2026-05-26T18:07:45","slug":"the-best-orthopedic-shoes-for-foot-pain-according-to-podiatrists","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/relocationtimess.com\/?p=720","title":{"rendered":"The best orthopedic shoes for foot pain, according to podiatrists"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Quick picks<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Everyday sneakers: <\/strong>Hoka Bondi 9 Running Shoes<\/p>

Balanced running shoes:<\/strong> Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 Running Shoes <\/p>

Editor-loved clogs:<\/strong> Commbi The Woolie Burro Women’s Mules<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n From the best walking shoes to comfortable work shoes, there\u2019s footwear made for every occasion these days, and if you\u2019re dealing with consistent discomfort in your feet, choosing the right pair can make a world of difference in how your body feels. They might seem like just another wellness product, but a pair of orthopedic shoes can help ease foot pain and make it more enjoyable to tackle health and fitness goals.\n <\/p>

Read more Trump administration proposes having all federal workers sign NDAs<\/a><\/p>\n

\n \u201cSimply put, orthopedic shoes aren\u2019t just comfortable; they\u2019re therapeutic,\u201d Dr. Nicholas Butler, a podiatrist and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, said. While orthopedic shoes will certainly aid ailing soles, creating proper support through your feet benefits the entire kinetic chain, including your ankles, knees, hips and lower back.\n <\/p>\n

\n We know that the term \u201corthopedic shoes\u201d might conjure images of clunky and sterile-looking footwear, but the good news is that orthopedic styles have come a long way in recent years, with fashion-forward designs that will have your feet looking and feeling great. Along with advice from your doctor regarding foot pain exercises, a pain-free day is closer than you think. To help you properly shop for orthopedic shoes, we consulted podiatrists and asked what styles and design features are most likely to ease daily foot pain.\n <\/p>\n

\n Best orthopedic shoes for foot pain\n<\/h2>\n
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Hoka Bondi 9<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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Editor Favorite<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nHoka Women’s Bondi 9 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Hoka\u2019s Bondi 9 are among the best cushioned shoes on the market. In fact, Butler said he wears his during long surgery days. CNN Underscored health and fitness editor Summer Cartwright is also a fan of the Bondi 9 sneakers. “The plush cushioning is gentle on my hips and knees, even when I’m experiencing arthritis flare-ups,” she said. They also have the brand’s MetaRocker soles, which are designed to relieve tired arches from bearing too much load. <\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n$175<\/s>\n From $140 at Hoka\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$175<\/s>\n From $140 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$175<\/s>\n From $141 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $175 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nHoka Men’s Bondi 9 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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These Hoka running shoes are the newest Bondi iteration and, like previous versions, boast ultrasoft and stable midsoles to alleviate high-impact foot pain. Now engineered with upgraded, rearfoot-focused frames, these shoes provide extra support to the heels and arches. All these features make the Bondi shoes a good option for those with plantar fasciitis or people who work long hours on their feet. Because Hoka\u2019s shoes are designed for walking and running, they have a sporty and less clinical look than other orthopedic options, so they\u2019re a more aesthetic choice for daily wear.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$175<\/s>\n From $140 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$175<\/s>\n From $141 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $175 at Hoka\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $175 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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New Balance Fresh Foam X 1540v4<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNew Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X 1540v4 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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For those looking to ease foot pain, Dr. Brandon Maijala, a board-certified podiatric surgeon, recommends the 1540 line from New Balance. He notes these shoes typically provide “the best level of support for patients who need stability, cushioning and space for their orthotic devices.” Orthotic insoles can be bulky, so having a pair of roomy shoes like these can make sliding the insoles in easy. Additionally, these models have a number of comfort-boosting features.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$200<\/s>\n From $95 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $200 at New Balance \n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $200 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNew Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1540v4 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Designed with New Balance’s Rollbar technology, which provides rear foot movement control, the Fresh Foam X 1540v4 improve your overall gait form. The shoes are available in wide and extra-wide sizing if your feet need more room (or if your doctor recommends adjusting your sizing to account for insoles). And if you’re a fan of warm weather cardio, the breathable mesh uppers will help keep your feet cool, whether you’re walking at a clip or running errands. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$200<\/s>\n From $114 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $200 at New Balance \n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $200 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOrthofeet Men’s Orthopedic Knit Lava Sneakers\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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“For true orthopedic needs \u2014 diabetes, neuropathy, arthritis, chronic foot pain \u2014 I often recommend Orthofeet because the design is built around protection and support,” Dr. Mikel Daniels, a board-certified podiatric surgeon and chief medical officer at WeTreatFeet Podiatry, said. He calls out the Lava model specifically for having particularly soft linings to reduce friction on your feet and pressure points. He also notes the shoes have extra depth in their design to give your feet plenty of room for movement throughout your step, which can help reduce pain.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$145<\/s>\n $100 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$135<\/s>\n From $100 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$145<\/s>\n $100 at Orthofeet\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nKuru Atom 2 Sneakers\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Podiatrist and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Nicole M. DeLauro recommends the Atom sneakers from Kuru if you\u2019re looking for a pair of all-around supportive shoes that are good for daily wear, walking or long days on your feet. This bestselling style recently got an upgrade; the newest Atom 2 sneakers now feature more underfoot cushioning for a softer landing and enhanced heel structures to relieve foot pain. This combination of solid cushioning and arch support prevents overuse injuries and supports proper gait form, according to DeLauro.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $169 at Kuru Footwear\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nBrooks Women\u2019s Adrenaline GTS 25 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Brooks\u2019 Adrenaline line is beloved by podiatrists, partially because its Go-To-Support (GTS) frame keeps feet in a more neutral position and prevents overpronation that would otherwise add pressure to your knees and ankles. They also have a lightweight feel, and the 12-millimeter midsole drop takes impact off of the heels, which decreases strain through the calves and Achilles tendons. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n Shop at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $155 at Brooks\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $155 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $155 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nBrooks Men\u2019s Adrenaline GTS 25 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Almost any of Brooks\u2019 GTS models offer excellent support, but Butler recommends this Adrenaline style for those who overpronate or need more structure in the rearfoot. These balanced shoes are also available in four width options, so you\u2019ll have more choices to find the best fit for your feet.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n From $150 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $155 at Brooks\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $155 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $155 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\nRelated article<\/span>\nThe best Brooks running shoes, according to a personal trainer and a marathon runner<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Brooks Ghost 18<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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Editor Favorite<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nBrooks Women’s Ghost 18 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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CNN Underscored updates writer Ellen McAlpine always has these Ghost running shoes in her rotation. “I have a bunion and spends lots of time on my feet,” she said. “These shoes are comfortable, roomy and lightweight. I like them for casual wear, since the sneakers offer lots of support but still feel streamlined.” <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$150<\/s>\n From $124 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $150 at Brooks\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $150 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $150 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nBrooks Men’s Ghost 18 Running Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Maijala recommends the Ghost sneakers for anyone dealing with side foot discomfort, since the shoes deliver a balanced amount of cushioning. He also likes the shock protection they provide, which reduces impact with each step. The Brooks Ghost 18 sneakers are available in narrow, standard, wide and extra-wide sizing, so you can find a perfect fit. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$150<\/s>\n From $121 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $150 at Brooks\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $150 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $150 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOrthofeet Men\u2019s Edgewater Sneakers\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Butler said Orthofeet is one of the best truly orthopedic consumer shoe brands on the market because its shoes have spacious toe boxes and medical-grade insoles to reduce discomfort. Butler recommends the Edgewater shoes, which feature deep footbeds and stretchy uppers that boost comfort for tired feet. They also make a great choice for those dealing with bunions, neuropathy or general forefoot pain. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$145<\/s>\n From $106 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$135<\/s>\n $115 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $115 at OrthoFeet\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOrthofeet Women\u2019s Coral Sneakers\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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DeLauro is also a fan of Orthofeet and likes these Coral sneakers, which are the most equivalent women\u2019s style to the Edgewater shoes. She said they\u2019re \u201can excellent everyday sneaker if you have foot or joint issues,\u201d adding that \u201cthey distribute weight evenly, have good arch support, deep heel cups and cushioning \u2014 all helpful for pain relief and proper alignment.\u201d<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$115<\/s>\n From $100 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$115<\/s>\n From $100 at OrthoFeet\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$140<\/s>\n From $104 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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New Balance Made in USA 990v6<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNew Balance Women\u2019s Made in USA 990v6 Sneakers\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Podiatrist and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Bobby Pourziaee likes these New Balance 990 sneakers as an orthopedic option since they offer strong medial and lateral support. In addition to structure, you’ll get generous cushioning from the FuelCell midsoles to keep you stepping comfortably. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$200<\/s>\n From $145 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $200 at New Balance \n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $200 at L.L.Bean\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $200 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNew Balance Men’s Made in the USA 990v6 Sneakers\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Available in four widths, these simple and supportive shoes are ideal for everyday wear. Plus, their retro style is on trend now that Dad shoes are back in fashion, so folks of all ages can feel stylish when rocking this pair. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$200<\/s>\n From $165 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $200 at New Balance \n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $200 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $200 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nDr. Comfort Women\u2019s Grace Sneakers\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Podiatrist and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Sari Priesand likes these Dr. Comfort sneakers for everyday wear, since they have removable footbeds that accommodate over-the-counter or custom orthotic inserts. They\u2019re available in three width options and designed to support those with diabetic foot conditions (such as hammertoes and bunions). People with plantar fasciitis or rheumatoid arthritis can also reap the benefits of these spacious and flexible sneakers.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$165<\/s>\n From $70 at Dr. Comfort\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\nRelated article<\/span>\nI\u2019m a marathon runner with arthritis. These 6 sneakers ease my joint pain<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best orthopedic slip-on shoes for foot pain\n<\/h2>\n
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\n\nVionic Tide 2.0 Flip-Flops\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Vionic is all about blending style with support, and the brand offers an array of sandals, flats and casual shoe options that won\u2019t leave your feet aching after a long day. Butler likes that the Tide sandals offer genuine arch support and heel stability, as opposed to other sandals with flimsy soles that flop around. Perfect for warm weather wear or as indoor house shoes, these sandals are also a good pick for those with plantar fasciitis who need extra heel support. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $100 at Vionic\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $100 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $100 at DSW\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $100 at Famous Footwear\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOrthofeet Women\u2019s Eve Wedges\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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For those who want a more dress-casual look but still need orthopedic comfort, DeLauro recommends this Eve style from Orthofeet. They have modest wedge heels to give you some lift, but still provide the cushioning and arch support needed to keep your feet properly aligned. DeLauro said these make a good choice for those with sensitive feet or who experience swelling, as the adjustable strap lets you modify the fit to what feels most comfortable. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n From $108 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $110 at OrthoFeet\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nDr. Comfort Men’s Performance X Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Maijala notes the Dr. Comfort Performance X shoes have extra depth to comfortably fit orthotic insoles without leaving your feet feeling crowded. He also notes the extra cushioning and support are especially beneficial for patients looking for shoes to support foot pain and diabetes. The shoes are a slip-on style, so you won’t have to kneel or bend as much to re-tie laces. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$165<\/s>\n $124 at Dr. Comfort\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Commbi The Woolie Burro Mules<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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Editor Favorite<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nCommbi Women’s The Woolie Burro Mules\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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CNN Underscored associate editor Jillian Tracy said these Woolie clogs have become her go-to errand running shoes over the past month since they\u2019re easy to slide on. “Even when my feet feel tired, the plush footbeds keep me moving with ease and the wool-felt uppers are surprisingly warm, which is a real bonus during the chilly days of fall and winter,” she said. There’s also a version of these mules with adjustable heel straps, which can give you an even more secure fit. <\/p>

Read more Nearly 1.2 billion people worldwide are living with mental disorders. The number has been growing<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $175 at Commbi\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Commbi is a relatively new brand on the footwear scene, but its shoes have already garnered lots of love from podiatrists and fashion editors thanks to the orthopedic-inspired design. Though the brand mostly carries clogs, slippers and slides, all of Commbi\u2019s styles featured contoured footbeds with arch support, deep heel cups and wide toe boxes, making for comfortable shoes that also don\u2019t compromise on alignment. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $175 at Commbi\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Summer Cartwright\/CNN Underscored<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nRelated article<\/span>\nThe best Hoka orthopedic shoes for joint pain, according to podiatrists<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n What are orthopedic shoes?\n<\/h2>\n

\n Unlike conventional footwear that might prioritize aesthetics or an overall lightweight feel, orthopedic shoes are specifically designed to support the structure and function of the foot using medical-grade features.\u201cOrthopedic shoes intentionally address biomechanics,\u201d Butler said. \u201cThey offer enhanced stability, support and pressure distribution for individuals with foot pain or structural abnormalities.\u201d\n <\/p>\n

\n Compared to standard shoes or sneakers, orthopedic shoes usually offer better arch support, more stability and extra cushioning for shock absorption, DeLauro said. They\u2019re also typically available in a variety of widths and depths to accommodate different foot shapes, deformities, swelling or supplemental orthotics. Orthopedic shoes also tend to make use of higher-quality cushioning and support materials, which can make them a bit more expensive than other footwear options.\n <\/p>\n

\n Pourziaee said these more intentional design features help to keep feet and ankles properly aligned, reduce abnormal pressure and compensate for biomechanical issues such as flat feet, high arches or excessive pronation. \u201cOrthopedic shoes help foot pain by distributing pressure more evenly, reducing strain on the plantar fascia, stabilizing the heel and minimizing excessive motion that can irritate joints, tendons and ligaments,\u201d he said.\n <\/p>\n

\n What to look for in orthopedic shoes for foot pain\n<\/h2>\n

\n While pretty much everyone can benefit from orthopedic shoes, there are some signs that it might be time to seriously consider investing in a pair for daily wear. If you have plantar fasciitis, heel or arch pain, foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes, find it hard to walk or stand for long periods or have difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably, it\u2019s likely time to upgrade your footwear. \u201cIf your current shoes feel comfortable for only a few hours or you consistently feel foot fatigue, those are big clues,\u201d Butler said.\n <\/p>\n

\n Orthopedic shoes have certain design features that set them apart from other run-of-the-mill styles. However, just because you don\u2019t see the word \u201corthopedic\u201d printed on the box or listed on a website, doesn\u2019t necessarily mean that the shoes lack orthopedic characteristics.\n <\/p>\n

\n To determine if a shoe is orthopedically designed, the podiatrists we spoke to said to look for these key features:\n <\/p>\n

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