It is often hard for people to find shoes for neuropathy. The market is filled with footwear that can be uncomfortable, expensive, and cute but not so functional at the same time. I am hoping to ease the struggle that comes with finding shoes for this condition. I am providing an honest review of stores and products that I have purchased myself, which will hopefully help you find what works best for your feet.
Understanding Neuropathy
Neuropathy literally means a disease of the nerves. In medical terms, it describes the damage that occurs to the main structures of different parts of an individual’s body. Normally, these nerves carry some kind of chemical signal throughout the nervous system so that organs and other body parts — like muscles, skin, or internal tissue — can receive signals and commands from your brain about how to move or perform specific functions.
If you experience neuropathy then such communications go haywire, affecting your physical health significantly. You might feel that things like walking barefoot or running on a hard surface can be pretty painful!
Causes of Neuropathy
The causes of Neuropathy are numerous and include leading a sedentary life, obesity, and lack of physical activity. One of the major causes of Neuropathy is certain prescription drugs like blood pressure and cholesterol medications and some brands of antibiotics. The second most common cause is diabetes.
Other factors that can lead to Neuropathy include chemotherapy, injury or surgery of the nerves, toxins in the body due to pollution, and preservatives in our food.
Types of Neuropathy
There are various types of neuropathy, the most common type affecting your feet and legs.
Mononeuropathy: People with mononeuropathy have a single-nerve disorder.
Multiple Mononeuropathy: Mononeuropathy affects two or more nerves at the same time.
Polyneuropathy: The most common form of peripheral neuropathy involves the degeneration of many peripheral nerves.
Diabetic Neuropathy: Diabetic neuropathy refers to nerve damage caused by abnormally high blood sugar levels.
Alcoholic Neuropathy: Alcoholic neuropathy is a condition caused by long-term consumption of alcohol in excess amounts. It results in degeneration of the peripheral and central nervous systems.
Idiopathic Neuropathy: Idiopathic neuropathy is a type of neuropathy for which the cause is unknown.
Autonomic Neuropathy: Autonomic Neuropathy can cause problems with your stomach and intestines, your bladder, and your genitalia.
Small Fiber Neuropathy: Small-fiber neuropathy is a condition in which the nerves near the surface of the skin that are responsible for sensation are damaged.
Ulnar Neuropathy: An ulnar neuropathy is a type of neuropathy affecting the ulnar nerve in your lower arm.
Features of Good Shoes for Neuropathy
Choosing the right shoes is an important factor in being comfortable and protecting your feet. There are several features to look for when you’re shopping for shoes that will help alleviate the pain associated with neuropathy.
There are some types of shoes that can help individuals with neuropathy feel better and more comfortable. Neuropathy sufferers should choose a shoe that has a firm heel counter for motion control and a closed-toe area with a wide or flexible design.
The shoe should have smooth-lined straps that will not cause friction and should have gel or foam padding as well as good arch support. If possible, look for shoes with a high grip durable rubber outsole. Shoes with these features can make your life easier by providing you with comfort and support without any unnecessary pain or discomfort.
Reviews: The Best Shoes for Neuropathy
It’s not easy finding the perfect pair of shoes especially if you have Neuropathy. Fortunately, we found some great options that are comfortable and supportive.
Shoes for Neuropathy
The Apis Mt Emey walking shoe is an easy-to-wear and easy-to-adjust option for treating anyone with neuropathy affecting their feet. The flexible uppers provide a soft and flexible fit, the shock-absorbing midsole ensures comfort when walking, and the thick and durable rubber outsole delivers support for your feet. These shoes accommodate foot conditions such as Bunions and hammertoes, making them ideal for those with these conditions. Available in standard, extended length, and wide width sizes as well.
Neuropathy Dress Shoe
There are dress shoes tailored to your special needs. These shoes from Orthofeet are ideal for anyone suffering from Neuropathy, with a soft and comfortable leather upper and anatomically shaped orthotic cushioned insole. Biotech Memory Foam supports your feet and the Bio Heel technology absorbs shock as you walk, reducing pressure on your nerves to relieve pain. Extra-depth and a wide toe box make these shoes extra-comfortable and easy to put on and take off.
Neuropathy Slip-On Shoe
The cool and breezy Go Walk 5 slip-on shoe offers great protection and comfort for feet facing Neuropathy symptoms. A mesh upper, thick and durable rubber outsole and a Dual-density Ultra Go outsole design with comfort Pillar technology make this shoe very lightweight, breathable, and comfortable. Featuring a Skechers Air Cooled Goga Mat insole. Inside is machine washable as well.
Neuropathy Walking Shoe
The stability ST walking shoe from Propet is the ideal balance support shoe for people with neuropathy. This shoe is designed to promote a comfortable and pain-free stride. The soft fabric uppers and moisture-wicking interior lining provide added comfort, while the shock-absorbing EVA midsole and gel pad provide cushioning and stability. Plus, the rubber outsole ensures good traction on multiple surfaces.
Sandal for Neuropathy
The Birkenstock Arizona sandal is great for protecting the feet from pressure and keeping them cool. Made from soft, suede-lined leather and a comfortable footbed, it can be easily adjusted to accommodate swelling for a perfect fit every time. Plus, the adjustable buckle also ensures that sandals stay firmly in place. The anatomical footbed offers maximum comfort and protection, while the upper has an open design that makes wearing these sandals more convenient. The outsole has good traction to keep you stable while walking, while the medium-width design is ideal for people with neuropathy in the feet. Available in different colors to suit your style, this pair of Birkenstock sandals can make an excellent addition to your footwear collection.
Fisherman’s Sandal for Neuropathy
The Naples Fisherman Sandal for Neuropathy and the Clearwater Fisherman Sandal for Neuropathy are two comfortable and stylish-looking replacement sandals for rubber-bottomed fisherman sandals that provide relief from burning, tingling pressure, and itching caused by an injury or nerve damage related to diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, and other foot problems. The Orthofeet Naples and Clearwater have a padded leather top, microfiber upper, and leather lining. The orthotic sole has been designed to support your foot posture with an anatomical contour that cradles the arch.
Running Shoe for Neuropathy
The Hoka One Clifton; this running shoe is perfect for those suffering from Neuropathy, as well as Arthritis, in their feet and legs. The thick Rocker Sole helps provide stability and motion as it provides protection from sharp objects in your path. Offering plenty of cushioning midsole comfort and a Motion Control Orthotic insole for added padding, this running shoe is just what the doctor ordered for patients who have been enduring foot pain on the track.
Athletic Shoe Neuropathy
New Balance provides Athletic Shoes for Neuropathy. The shoes in this collection have wider widths and softer uppers, taking into consideration the sensitive skin of those with Neuropathy. Each pair offers a removable shoe insert or orthopedic insert that can be removed when not necessary. These inserts are made to provide excellent cushioning and have a midsole that offers complete shock absorbency. New Balance’s Athletic Shoes are durable, and are lighter in weight than other athletic styles, therefore making them perfect for walking long distances.
Neuropathy Walking Shoe
The Adidas EQT Racing ADV W is a great option for feet with Neuropathy symptoms. The Adaptive Fit technology combines a Primeknit upper, a lining made of mesh for breathability, and a FIT FRAME supporting structure to ensure comfort. A TPU Shank and Torsion System provides stability and protection in the bottom, while an EVA Midsole provides shock absorption, making this model perfect for foot health.
