The 6 Best Shoes for Arthritis

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The best shoes for arthritis are comfortable and durable, with good arch support and a thick heel. Image Credit: LIVESTRONG.com Creative

Many people think of

For more than 30 years, this exact style has reigned supreme in the New Balance catalog — and it's clear to see why. Not only has the shoe itself never gone out of style, but its almost perfect sole-to-forefoot rocker with an added midfoot stabilizer makes it the best stability shoe on the market, in Dr. Javed's opinion. "You can get anything and everything done in this shoe — you can even add

These are great lace-up shoes for everyday use, especially for someone with arthritis.

"They have a cork and latex footbed that provides great support through the arch and midfoot and a knit upper area that can accommodate bone spurs of the toes," explains

Designed specifically for running, the Graviota 3 provides a protective cushioning while maintaining a responsive toe-off for when you want to go faster, Dr. Javed says. "The shoe also contains the J-Frame technology designed to prevent excessive inward roll, or overpronation, without overcorrecting your gait," she says.

The shoe itself has received the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which podiatrists recognize to be a superior promotion for good foot health.

​​​Buy it:​

One of the most common

These are great running shoes for people with arthritis in their big toe, Dr. Oldani says. "They provide a rocker bottom sole and are the most cushioned shoe of the brand's road shoe choices," he notes. "They also have a roomy toe box to accommodate bone spurs at the great toe joint."

The breathable lining on this shoe helps prevent chafing, which can also help eliminate painful foot blisters that can occur after significant movement.

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Founded in 1930, Birkenstocks have been a favorite ever since because of their unique footbed, notes Dr. Javed. "Each element of the footbed serves a purpose to encourage proper foot wellbeing and health, and the result is signature style coupled with all-day comfort."

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Her favorite feature specifically for people with arthritis is the four-layered footbed, which provides optimal support and protection for the foot and helps reduce abnormal motion.

​​​Buy it:​​ Birkenstock.com (men’s sizes 6-15.5); Birkenstock.com (women’s sizes 4-12.5); ​​​​Price:​​​ ​$110

What to Look for in Shoes for Arthritis

Here are a few features to keep in mind when shopping for the best shoes to relieve the symptoms of arthritis.

1. Arch Support

Arch support is especially important when people have arthritis of the rear foot or through the arch, according to Dr. Oldani.

"Shoes with more cushion and stability through the arch will help minimize impact when walking or running, as the joints within the arch will have to move less which will lead to decreased pain," he says. "Also the added support through the arch will help dissipate force throughout the joints, especially when running."

2. Weight

Lightweight shoes will provide less support and stability than heavier shoes, Dr. Oldani says. For those with arthritic joints of the foot, he recommends heavier shoes, as they will usually be more efficient at minimizing pain.

"Lightweight shoes will have to sacrifice added stability and shock absorption, which is not a good combination for arthritic joints," he adds.

3. Heel Height

Surprisingly, very flat shoes are not recommended for people with arthritis.

"Everyday shoes that are worn often and for long periods of standing and walking should have a thick sole and preferably have a heel-to-toe drop, meaning that the heel and back part of the shoe is thicker than the front," explains Dr. Sutera. "High heels, however, are also not recommended for long periods of standing and walking and should be worn in moderation, if at all."

4. Durability

Durability is key when shopping for shoes that can help with arthritis.

"Shoes with good soles, robust uppers and those that are lightweight will stay structurally sound much longer than shoes that are flexible and too soft," says Dr. Javed. "You do not want your shoes to wear out quickly, as this can worsen the arthritis in your foot."

5. Comfort

Comfort is always an important factor when shopping for a shoe, but especially so if you have arthritis.

"In arthritis, many joints become hypertrophic (enlarged and deformed), which can lead to bony prominences," says Dr. Javed. "If the shoes are tight and they are rubbing across the joints this can cause tissue injuries and pain."

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