Do you experience back pain? If so, you’re not alone. The American Chiropractic Association estimates that 31 million Americans experience lower back pain, making back pain the third most common reason for doctor and chiropractor visits.

Why do I suffer from back pain?

While factors like sprains, fractures, pinched or damaged sciatic nerves, and ruptured discs can trigger back pain, poor posture plays a significant role. The right shoes can have a tremendous impact on improving posture and helping to alleviate back pain. Here are some helpful tips on what to look for the next time you’re shoe shopping.

The right shoes to help back pain relief

1. Make sure they fit — Before wearing or purchasing a new pair of shoes, make sure they’re not too big or too small. Ill-fitting shoes can cause a long list of foot problems like calluses and blisters. And they can also throw off your posture causing pain throughout your back.  Help relieve back pain by making sure the balls of your feet rest where the toe end of the shoe bends when you walk. If you’re still not convinced, spend a couple of minutes walking in your shoes to see if you sense any discomfort.
2. Avoid high heels when possible — While style plays a big part in shoe preference, be careful with high heels. This footwear can shift the center of gravity for your feet, thus throwing off your posture and causing back pain. This happens because your body weight is centered around one area of your foot and sits in an unnatural, upright position. It also places more strain on your posture and back, which is why it’s important to wear high heels in moderation. If you must wear these shoes, make sure to wear a modest heel and bring a pair of comfortable shoes to change into afterward.
3. Support your feet — Using arch support can help maintain good posture by providing the cushioning and foot support you need. Shoes like ballet flats offer no support to help posture the feet appropriately, which can cause back pain. Enhance poorly cushioned footwear like these by placing orthopedic inserts into your shoe. These helpful inserts not only ease foot pain, but they also provide arch support which can help relieve back pain through improved posture.

Need help snagging the best advice on how to help relieve back pain? Contact us today to learn more tips or to schedule an initial appointment with our clinic in Apache Junction, Arizona.