3 tips for finding shoes for prosthetics

Do you have trouble finding suitable shoes? Choosing the wrong shoes may cause various problems and troubles, such as unstable walking posture and even the risk of falling and injury. Here, I offer three practical tips.

Which type of shoe is best depends on many factors, such as the location of the amputation, the type of prosthesis and your walking style. Of course comfort is also crucial! Generally speaking, running shoes or athletic shoes are the best choice for amputees. These shoes are sturdy and durable, usually have a good heel height, and the soles are often shock-absorbing. However, life needs variety, which is why I have prepared the following three tips.

1. Choose the appropriate heel height

Contrary to popular belief, flat shoes are not necessarily the safest choice for people wearing prosthetics. In fact, many prosthetic feet are specifically designed for a modest heel height of approximately 1 cm. Shoes with too flat soles will make you feel like you are falling backwards, and may also cause the angle of the prosthetic socket to be unsatisfactory. If you use a lower leg prosthesis, this condition can put pressure on the area below the knee.

2. Choose high heels carefully

Many women like to wear high heels on special occasions. If you choose a pair of high heels with the right heel height, it is extremely important for your own safety. If the heel is too high, you may feel like your body is leaning forward, which is especially dangerous for thigh amputees. Because when the heel is too high, the body's center of gravity will automatically shift to the toes of the prosthetic foot, which will cause the prosthetic knee joint to bend, which may lead to a serious fall.

3. Choose formal shoes with high-quality soles

Many men wear formal shoes for business meetings or special occasions. If you're planning on purchasing a pair of dress shoes, pay attention not only to the heel height but also to the sole. It's critical that the soles of your shoes provide proper support because your healthy leg also takes a greater amount of impact when walking. Thin soles do not provide enough support and cannot effectively absorb impact. If you choose thin-soled shoes, be sure to use insoles to add extra support.