Choosing Shoes to Prevent and Manage Back Pain

How to Choose Shoes That Are Good for Your Back

Back discomfort is a common problem that can affect your daily life and well-being. Many factors can cause or worsen back pain, such as poor posture, muscle strain, injury, inflammation, and stress. However, one factor that you may not be aware of is your choice of footwear.

Shoes that do not fit well or provide adequate support and cushioning for your feet and spine can distort your spinal alignment and movement, leading to more stress and strain on your lower back1. Therefore, it is important to choose shoes that are comfortable, supportive, and suitable for your foot structure and activity level.

In this post, we will explain how shoes can affect your back health, what features to look for when choosing back-friendly shoes, and some recommended shoe brands that offer comfort and quality footwear.

Ways Shoes Can Lead to Back Pain

Shoes can lead to back pain in several ways, depending on their design, fit, and function2. Here are some common ways shoes can cause or worsen back pain:

• • Poor posture: Shoes that are too high or too low can alter the natural curve of your spine and push your center of gravity forward or backward4. This can cause you to arch your lower back excessively or flatten it too much, resulting in poor posture and more pressure on your lower back muscles and joints.

• • Muscle strain: Shoes that lack cushioning or arch support can cause your feet to absorb more impact and pressure when you walk or run. This can result in jarring shocks to your lower back and overworked muscles that have to compensate for the lack of support. Shoes that have a narrow toe box can also cramp your toes together and throw off your natural gait, causing more strain on your back.

• • Joint issues: Shoes that have hard, inflexible soles can also increase the impact on your spine and joints when you walk or run8. This can lead to inflammation, arthritis, and degeneration of the spinal discs and joints. Shoes that are unstable or provide no motion control can also cause your feet to roll inward or outward excessively, which can affect the alignment and movement of your spine.

Finding Back Pain-Friendly Shoes

To prevent or manage back pain, you should look for shoes that provide proper support, cushioning, and flexibility for your feet and spine1. Here are some features to look for when choosing shoes that are good for your back:

• • Proper heel height: A slight heel of 1-2 inches can help to promote proper alignment of the spine and reduce the impact on the lower back11. Shoes that are too high or too low can alter the natural curve of your spine and put stress on your lower back muscles and joints.

• • Adequate cushioning: Shoes that have good cushioning can help to absorb the shock and pressure that your feet and spine experience when you walk or run12. Cushioning can also help to prevent foot pain and injuries that can affect your posture and gait13. Look for shoes that have a thick, soft, and flexible sole that can absorb the shock and pressure that your feet and spine experience.

• • Supportive arch: Shoes that have good arch support can help to keep your feet in a neutral position and prevent them from rolling inward or outward, which can affect the alignment and movement of your spine159. Arch support can also help to distribute your body weight evenly across your feet and reduce the stress on your lower back.

• • Roomy toe box: Shoes that have a roomy toe box can allow your toes to spread naturally and avoid crowding, which can cause pain, numbness, and deformities6. A roomy toe box can also prevent pressure points and friction that can lead to blisters, corns, and calluses.

• • Flexible sole: Shoes that have a flexible sole can allow your feet to bend and flex naturally as you walk or run, which can improve your balance and stability18. A flexible sole can also help to reduce the impact on your joints and discs, which can cause or worsen back pain.

Other Factors to Consider

Besides looking for these features, there are some other factors to consider when choosing shoes for back pain. Here are some tips to help you find the best shoes for your back health:

• • Consult a qualified professional: Seek expert assistance from a podiatrist or a shoe specialist to measure both of your feet while standing and find the right size and fit for your shoes. You should also ask for advice on the best shoes for your specific foot structure and back condition.
  • Ensure appropriate fit: Make sure your shoes fit well across the entire foot and have adequate toe room19. You should be able to wiggle your toes freely and not feel any pressure or rubbing on your heels, arches, or toes.

• • Prioritize arch support and cushioning: Opt for shoes that have a firm, supportive, and contoured insole that matches the shape of your arch9. You can also use orthotics or inserts to provide extra cushioning, arch support, or heel lift.
  • Steer clear of extreme heels or flat soles: Footwear with markedly elevated heels or entirely flat soles should be avoided, as they can cause poor posture and more stress on your lower back21. A slight heel of 1-2 inches can help to promote proper alignment of the spine and reduce the impact on the lower back.

• Rotate footwear: Regularly alternate shoes to allow for ventilation and drying22. This can help to prevent fungal infections, odors, and deterioration of your shoes.

Recommended Shoe Brands for Back Pain

There are many shoe brands that offer comfort and quality footwear that can help reduce back pain. Here are some of the recommended shoe brands that are available in the UK:

• • Xsensible: Xsensible is a Dutch shoe brand that offers comfort, balance, and quality footwear23. Their shoes are designed to provide arch support, shock absorption, and stability which can help reduce back pain224. They have an official UK stockist called ShoeFit that sells their shoes online.

• • HOKA: HOKA is an American company that specializes in lightweight running shoes with extra thick midsoles to provide cushioning and support28. Their shoes feature oversized soles to absorb impact and reduce strain29. HOKA has a UK website where customers can purchase their shoes online.

• • Joya: Joya is a Swiss shoe brand that uses a flexible sole made of soft, elastic material that is designed to mimic the foot’s natural rolling motion while walking32. Their shoes provide cushioning and aim to strengthen feet and improve posture and back health14. Joya has a UK distributor called Joya Shoes UK that sells their products online.

• • Asics: Asics is a Japanese athletic brand that offers a wide range of sports shoes and lifestyle footwear33. Their shoes often utilize gel cushioning systems and other technologies to absorb shock and reduce injury25. Asics has a UK website where customers can shop for shoes online.

• • ECCO: ECCO is a Danish shoe company known for its comfortable, stylish leather shoes36. Their shoes feature removable insoles designed to provide arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption242. ECCO has a UK website where customers can browse and purchase their leather shoes and other footwear.

• • Vionic: Vionic is an American footwear brand that incorporates podiatrist-designed orthotic support into many of their shoe styles37. Their shoes aim to reduce overpronation and provide arch support through their podiatrist-developed footbeds38. Vionic has a UK website where customers can shop their supportive sandals, slippers, and more.

We hope this post has helped you understand how shoes can affect your back health and what features to look for when choosing back-friendly shoes. By wearing the right shoes and following other tips to manage and prevent back pain, you can improve your quality of life and well-being.

Conclusion

Back pain is a common and debilitating condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or activity level. Shoes that distort posture, strain muscles, or impact joints can worsen back pain and lead to other health problems.

Therefore, it is important to choose shoes that provide proper support, cushioning, and flexibility for your feet and spine. You should also consult a podiatrist if you have chronic back issues or need custom footwear or additional support.

A podiatrist can help you evaluate whether your feet are responsible for your back pain or not, and recommend the best shoes for your specific condition and needs. By wearing the right shoes and following other tips to manage and prevent back pain, you can improve your quality of life and well-being.

Recommended  Shoe Brands for Back Pain Available in the UK

Xsensible

Xsensible is a Dutch shoe brand that offers comfort, balance, and quality footwear. Their shoes are designed to provide arch support, shock absorption, and stability which can help reduce back pain. They have an official UK stockist called ShoeFit that sells their shoes online and are also available on Amazon UK here.

Xsensible Range – Women

Xsensible Aosta – Women’s Casual Boots: £210.00

Women’s Casual Boots: These are boots that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are suitable for cold and wet weather and have a stylish design.

Xsensible Cork Women – Women’s Outdoor Boots: £260.00

Women’s Outdoor Boots: These are hiking boots that are inspired by the balance principle of the traditional Japanese wooden slipper. They have a waterproof Dry-X membrane, a stretchable and durable top layer, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are designed to offer comfort, stability, and protection for outdoor activities.

Xsensible Merano – Women’s Casual Boots: £210.00

These are boots that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are suitable for cold and wet weather and have a stylish design.

Xsensible Helsinki Women – Women’s Outdoor Boots: £215.00

These are boots that feature a stretchable and durable top layer, a waterproof Dry-X membrane, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. The boots are designed to offer comfort, stability, and protection for outdoor activities. The boots are available in different colors and have a country-style look.

Xsensible Riga – Women’s Casual Boots: £205.00

Women’s Casual Boots: These are boots that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are suitable for cold and wet weather and have a classic design.

Xsensible Milton – Women’s Casual Boots: £200.00

Women’s Casual Boots: These are boots that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are ideal for women who want a comfortable and fashionable winter boot.

Xsensible Seattle Women – Women’s Outdoor Boots: £220.00

These are boots that feature a stretchable and durable top layer, a waterproof Dry-X membrane, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. The boots are designed to offer comfort, stability, and protection for outdoor activities. The boots are available in different colors and have a country-style look.

Xsensible Victoria – Women’s Outdoor Boots: £270.00

Women’s Outdoor Boots: These are hiking boots that are inspired by the balance principle of the traditional Japanese wooden slipper. They have a waterproof Dry-X membrane, a stretchable and durable top layer, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are designed to offer comfort, stability, and protection for outdoor activities.

Xsensible Merano – Women’s Casual Boots: £210.00

These are boots that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are suitable for cold and wet weather and have a stylish design.

Xsensible Milton – Women’s Casual Boots: £200.00

These are boots that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are ideal for women who want a comfortable and fashionable winter boot.

Xsensible Oulu Women – Women’s Outdoor Boots: £200.00 – £215.00

These are hiking boots that feature a stretchable and durable top layer, a waterproof Dry-X membrane, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. The boots are designed to offer comfort, stability, and protection for outdoor activities.

Xsensible Riga – Women’s Casual Boots: £205.00

These are boots that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are suitable for cold and wet weather and have a classic design.

Xsensible Victoria – Women’s Outdoor Boots: £270.00

These are hiking boots that are inspired by the balance principle of the traditional Japanese wooden slipper. They have a waterproof Dry-X membrane, a stretchable and durable top layer, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are designed to offer comfort, stability, and protection for outdoor activities.

Xsensible Seattle Women – Women’s Outdoor Boots: £220.00

These are boots that feature a stretchable and durable top layer, a waterproof Dry-X membrane, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. The boots are designed to offer comfort, stability, and protection for outdoor activities.

Xsensible Women’s Shoes

Xsensible England – Women’s Casual Shoes: £180.00

Women’s Casual Shoes: These are casual shoes that combine a retro style with comfort and durability. They feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are suitable for both business and leisure occasions, and come in various colors.

Xsensible Florence – Women’s Casual Shoes: £175.00

Women’s Casual Shoes: These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They have a sporty design and come in different colors.

Xsensible Iona – Women’s Casual Shoes: £185.00 – £205.00

These are shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a patented technology that consists of six layers of leather that stretch and adapt to the foot shape. The shoes also have a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. The shoes are available in various colors and have a sporty design.

Xsensible Ponte Vecchio – Women’s Casual Shoes: £215.00 – £225.00

Women’s Casual Shoes: These are shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are available in different colors and have a contemporary design.

Xsensible SWX16 – Women’s Casual Shoes: £210.00 – £215.00

These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a patented technology that consists of six layers of leather that stretch and adapt to the foot shape. The shoes also have a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. The shoes are available in various colors and have a sporty design.

Xsensible Tokio – Women’s Casual Shoes: £175.00 – £190.00

These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are suitable for both business and leisure occasions, and come in various colors.

Xsensible Arona – Women’s Casual Shoes: £195.00

Women’s Casual Shoes: These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are available in different colors and have a contemporary design.

Xsensible Bodo – Women’s Outdoor Shoes: £195.00 – £205.00

Women’s Outdoor Shoes: These are hiking shoes that feature high-quality leather and mesh, ideal for women who want a breathable and comfortable summer shoe that can handle different terrains. They have a Velcro closure and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology.

Xsensible Carrara – Women’s Casual Shoes: £190.00

These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They have a sporty design and come in different colors.

Xsensible Corby – Women’s Casual Shoes: £190.00

These are casual shoes that combine a retro style with comfort and durability. They feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are suitable for both business and leisure occasions, and come in various colors.

Xsensible Corfino – Women’s Casual Shoes: £195.00

These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are available in different colors and have a contemporary design.

Xsensible Grenoble – Women’s Casual Shoes: £195.00 – £205.00

These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are available in different colors and have a contemporary design.

Xsensible Palermo – Women’s Casual Shoes: £165.00 – £170.00

These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are available in different colors and have a sporty design.

Xsensible Ponte Vecchio – Women’s Casual Shoes: £215.00 – £225.00

These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are available in different colors and have a contemporary design.

Xsensible Stockholm – Women’s Outdoor Shoes: £190.00 – £195.00

These are outdoor shoes that feature a stretchable and durable top layer, a waterproof Dry-X membrane, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. The shoes are designed to offer comfort, stability, and protection for outdoor activities.

Xsensible SWX11 – Women’s Casual Shoes: £195.00 – £215.00

These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a patented technology that consists of six layers of leather that stretch and adapt to the foot shape. The shoes also have a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology.

Xsensible SWX16 – Women’s Casual Shoes: £210.00 – £215.00

These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. The shoes are available in various colors and have a sporty design

Xsensible SWX18 – Women’s Casual Shoes: £210.00

These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. The shoes have a contemporary design and come in different colors.

Xsensible SWX19 – Women’s Casual Shoes: £200.00 – £225.00

These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. The shoes have a sporty design and come in different colors.

Xsensible SWX3 Lady – Women’s Casual Shoes: £190.00

These are sneakers that combine fashion, comfort, and functionality. The shoes feature soft leather and stretch fabric around the forefoot, a side zip for easy entry, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology.

Xsensible Tokio – Women’s Casual Shoes: £175.00 – £190.00

These are casual shoes that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are suitable for both business and leisure occasions, and come in various colors.

Xsensible Uppsala – Women’s Outdoor Shoes: £190.00 – £195.00

These are outdoor shoes that feature a stretchable and durable top layer, a waterproof Dry-X membrane, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. The shoes are designed to offer comfort, stability, and protection for outdoor activities.

Xsensible Wembley – Women’s Casual Shoes: £185.00 – £205.00

These are casual shoes that combine a retro style with comfort and durability. They feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are suitable for both business and leisure occasions, and come in various colors.

Xsensible Women’s Sandals

Xsensible Chios – Women’s Outdoor Sandals: £160.00

Women’s Outdoor Sandals: These are sandals that feature high-quality leather and mesh, a Velcro closure, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are ideal for women who want a breathable and comfortable summer shoe that can handle different terrains.

Xsensible Curacao – Women’s Casual Sandals: £150.00

Women’s Casual Sandals: These are casual sandals that feature Xsensible Stretchleather, a waterproof membrane, a removable memory foam insole, and a non-slip sole with Xsensible Balance Technology. They are available in different colors and have a contemporary design.

Xsensible Bonaire – Women’s Casual Sandals: £140.00 – £145.00

These are casual sandals that feature high-quality leather and mesh, ideal for women who want a breathable summer shoe but prefer to keep their toes covered. The sandals have a closed toe and heel, providing optimal support.

Xsensible Corfu – Women’s Casual Sandals: £140.00

These are casual sandals that feature high-quality leather and mesh, ideal for women who want a breathable summer shoe that can handle different terrains. They have an open toe and heel, providing optimal ventilation.

Xsensible Rhodos – Women’s Casual Sandals: £150.00

These are casual sandals that feature high-quality leather and mesh, ideal for women who want a breathable summer shoe that can handle different terrains. They have an open toe and heel, providing optimal ventilation.

Xsensible Rinia – Women’s Casual Sandals: £120.00

These are casual sandals that feature high-quality leather and mesh, ideal for women who want a breathable summer shoe but prefer to keep their toes covered. The sandals have a closed toe and heel, providing optimal support.

Xsensible Syros – Women’s Casual Sandals: £140.00 – £145.00

These are casual sandals that feature high-quality leather and mesh, ideal for women who want a breathable summer shoe that can handle different terrains. The sandals have an open toe and heel, providing optimal ventilation.

Xsensible Range – Men

Xsensible Men’s Boots

Xsensible Cork Men – Men’s Outdoor Boots – £270.00

Xsensible Men’s Shoes

Click Here For My Joya Back Pain Shoe Review

Click Here For My Vionic Back Pain Shoe Review