The Best Shoes to Use if You Have Back Pain
In the United States, approximately 80 percent of adults will experience back pain at some point in their lives. It is one of the most common medical conditions to be reported and causes millions of dollars in lost revenue. There are many causes of back pain, yet the most pertinent to the lower extremity is bad posture, ill-fitted shoes, and the lack of stretching. Realignment therapies, including physical therapy, biofeedback, and ergonomically designed workspaces can help with posture. Stretching, done twice a day for two minutes each can help improve contractures and help relax muscle fibers. However, when it comes to shoes, most people have no idea what are the best shoes to wear. Foot and ankle doctors will always advise that a SHOE should have the following three traits.
Have at least a one-inch heel counter; this counter can help to alleviate the pressure on the back, lower legs, Achilles tendon, plantar fascia, and also the big toe joint (yes it is all connected)
A stable midfoot with NO Flexion at the arch of the shoe; the more flexible a shoe at the arch and heel the more pressure and instability that ensues. If you already have a collapsing arch this will make it hurt more.
No twisting of the shoe; if the shoe is easily twistable it causes your ankle to become hypermobile and can cause ankle sprains and ankle injuries.
My Favorite Go-To Shoes
Best for Neutral Shoes
Best for Collapsing Arches
Best for Pronators and Flat Feet