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There is no one shoe that will suit everyone, and there are several factors that need to be taken into consideration to ensure each individual selects the most appropriate footwear for them. Many shoes are built with different characteristics, making them ideal for certain activities, on certain surface types. It is also recommended that you contact your podiatrist when selecting your footwear to ensure the perfect shoe is selected to suit your feet and your specific needs.

Many injuries in the lower limbs can be caused by wearing the incorrect footwear. Some injuries may include shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, stress fractures, plantar fasciitis and so much more. Choosing the right footwear can prevent injury, and it can also aid your rehabilitation.

There are three main feet types, Normal or Neutral, absent or Pronator, and Prominent or Supinator.

foot type

If you have a normal foot shape, when landing on the outside of the heel it should rolls inwards slightly to absorb shock, people with this foot shape should choose stability shoes with moderate control features.

Having an absent foot shape can cause many different types of overuse injuries if the incorrect footwear is chosen. The best shoe type for absent foot shapes are motion controlled shoes, or high stability shoes with firm midsoles and control features, avoid highly cushioned and highly curved shoes as they lack stability features.

If you have a prominent foot shape, this foot shape generally isn’t an effective shock absorber. Therefore the best shoe type is one that is cushioned, with plenty of flexibility to encourage foot motion, avoid motion controlled or stability shoes as they will reduce your foot mobility.

You can have your feet type assessed whilst standing, walking and running by an experienced podiatrist here at Border Podiatry Centre, this will help you determine what shoe type is best for you.

Until next time!