Does anyone find that a type of shoe helps your foot neuropathy?

Posted by lorirenee1 @lorirenee1, Mar 25, 2019

I am on a constant quest for shoes that don't kill my feet due to the neuropathy. I find that Spencos and Wolky shoes seem the best. Are there any other suggestions? Shoes can be just crippling for me. Horrid.

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@fala

That made me laugh. Thanks for that, I do not laugh as much these days since my PN went to a new high. Here, I thought I was kind of "leveling off". I thought I was finally getting used to my disability. I thought I knew what I could and could not do, since this started a long time ago!. It's funny (only NOW) that I once used a phrase, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger" Who thought that one up? Not true. anyway, I have a NEW "level" of pain, after ALL these years!! So, why am I announcing this? I did not think I could get worse, since I have had this miserable pain since the late 80's. The only thing that I do that I have not read about is changing my shoes every day until I run out of shoes. I tried to wear the same pair twice in a row and ha ha, that decision changed in minutes. Where's our cure? Let's all still hope.

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please give barefoot shoes by Grounded a try. They are not expensive so if they dont work for you you're not out much. They are the only shoes that dont hurt my feet and my neuropathy is much eased

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This is such a great question! As someone who spent 30 years as an electrician on my feet all day, I thought I knew everything about work boots and foot comfort. But neuropathy is a whole different beast.

Before my neuropathy started, I swore by Red Wing work boots with custom insoles. But now those same boots feel like torture devices. The burning and tingling makes everything feel different.

I've been experimenting since my diagnosis 3 years ago. So far, I've found that:

- Sketchers with memory foam (like @johnbishop mentioned) do help, but you're right about them wearing out quickly
- New Balance walking shoes with extra wide width have been surprisingly good
- I had to completely give up any shoe with a heel or rigid sole

The strangest thing is that what feels good in the morning can feel terrible by afternoon. It's like my feet change throughout the day.

@lorirenee1 - I totally relate to the "walking on pebbles" feeling. Sometimes I'll stop and check my shoes thinking there's actually something in there!

Has anyone tried those diabetic shoes that Medicare covers? My doctor mentioned them but I wasn't sure if they'd help with neuropathy specifically.

Thanks for starting this discussion - it's so helpful to know I'm not alone in this shoe struggle!

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Hike barefoot shoes. I bought on pair on line and they are very comfortable and roomy.

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@solobeee

Please try Barefoot Footware - they are recommended for neuropathy & are available on Amazon by many manufacturers. They help with balance, strength, walking & driving. Nothing works better than these for neuropathy!!!

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Are those shoes the ones that have a foot imprint on the bottom?

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My feet and hands ache so much recently.

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I have porphyria and sometimes I think I’m getting Alzheimer’s. I forget or am unable to come up with information or words I know. I have been tested for Alzheimer’s and all is negative. Is there something I can do to help me with this. I also had a stroke 2 1/2 years ago.
Thanks

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In addition to Polyneuropathy I have bad bone spurs on the top of my feet.
Lace up shoes are painful because of the bone spurs.

I’ve discovered shoes that are from “Hey Dude”. They are slip on, have a wide toe bed, and for me work well.
I get them on Amazon and eBay

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I look for a rounded heel running shoe. The roundness causes the heel strike to be farther forward on my foot and my step to roll some from heel to toe direction when walking. It’s amazing how much it helps walking. I think the ones I wear are “Hoka Ones”. They’re a little,pricey but you’re only young and beautiful once. I actually have 2-pairs. One pair are my “slippers” and the other for day to day out and about.

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@lakelariet

please give barefoot shoes by Grounded a try. They are not expensive so if they dont work for you you're not out much. They are the only shoes that dont hurt my feet and my neuropathy is much eased

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@lakelariet
I'll take safety over comfort any day.

Here's why going barefoot or wearing minimalist shoes is risky for neuropathy sufferers:
Loss of sensation:
Neuropathy can cause numbness and decreased sensitivity to pain, temperature, and pressure in the feet.
Increased risk of injury:
Without the ability to feel pain, individuals with neuropathy may not notice minor injuries like cuts, blisters, or stepping on sharp objects.
Impaired healing:
Diabetes can also impair circulation and the body's ability to fight infection, making it harder to heal from foot injuries and increasing the risk of infection.
Potential for infection:
Even minor injuries can quickly become infected due to reduced sensation and impaired healing, potentially leading to serious complications according to Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists.
Risk of falls:
Loss of sensation can affect balance and increase the risk of falls, which can cause further injury, says Healthline.
What to do instead:
Always wear shoes:
Individuals with neuropathy should always wear shoes, even indoors, to protect their feet from injury.
Choose supportive shoes:
Opt for shoes with good arch support, cushioning, and a sturdy sole to provide protection and support.
Consider orthotics:
Orthotics, such as custom-made shoe inserts, can provide additional support and cushioning and help distribute pressure evenly across the foot.
Consult with a healthcare professional:
It's essential to consult with a doctor, podiatrist, or other healthcare professional specializing in foot care to determine the best footwear and management strategies for individual needs.
Manage diabetes:
If neuropathy is related to diabetes, it's crucial to manage blood sugar levels and follow a comprehensive diabetes management plan to slow the progression of neuropathy.
Be mindful of surfaces:
Even when wearing shoes, be mindful of the surfaces being walked on, avoiding uneven or potentially hazardous surfaces.
Regular foot care:
Perform daily foot checks to identify any injuries or signs of infection, and seek professional help if needed.
By taking these precautions, individuals with neuropathy can minimize the risk of injury and infection and enjoy a better quality of life.
Take care,
Jake

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