Orthopedic Considerations for Buying Shoes With Psoriatic Arthritis

Devices and Inserts for Shoes

Shoe devices can relieve pain and prevent gait problems associated with psoriatic arthritis of the feet. A podiatrist, a doctor who is trained specifically to diagnose and treat diseases and conditions of the feet, may prescribe a shoe implant, called an orthotic, for this purpose.

Two types of orthotics are commonly used:

• Accommodative orthotics typically cushion sore or tender areas of the feet. They are made from soft material such as cork, leather, foam, or rubber.
• Functional orthotics are designed primarily to adjust the functioning of a person’s foot or stride and are made of relatively rigid plastic or graphite. Functional orthotics are usually thinner than accommodative orthotics.

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Some people who have more severe psoriatic arthritis may require prescription shoes and orthotics. In this case, a podiatrist will evaluate your feet and write a prescription for custom-made shoes. While some specialty shoe stores may be able to make simple orthotics on-site, others require the podiatrist to order specialized shoes from a lab. When ready, the shoes are delivered back to the podiatrist, who will fit them for you and show you how to use them.

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Be Smart About Shoe Shopping

Follow these shoe-buying tips to find the right fit that helps prevent foot pain and helps you avoid worsening problems down the road.

• Match your shoes to the shape of your foot. Check the shoes you already have and see if they are properly accommodating your feet. Draw the outline of each pair of your shoes on a piece of paper. Place your feet within the drawings. Your toes should fit comfortably inside the lines.
• Wear shoes that provide support. You’re looking for arch support and a sturdy upper. That generally leaves out mules or slip-ons.
• Look for rubber soles. The ball of the foot should be flexible.
• Avoid high heels. Heels can cause pain in the ball of the foot, place extra stress on your joints, and pinch your feet.

Additionally, people who have psoriatic arthritis may find some relief from pain and swelling by wearing a good pair of running shoes.

Search online for local retail outlets that offer more sophisticated shoes, such as those built specifically for people living with arthritis.

If a person’s foot deformity is not very significant, Michael Bozzaotra, the owner of Performance Labs in Patterson, New Jersey, recommends looking for stores that sell shoes for people who have diabetes. “A diabetic shoe is going to be an arthritic patient’s friend,” he says. “Those shoes are everywhere.”

With proper foot care, you can ease or possibly avoid altogether some of the more common foot-related complications of psoriatic arthritis.