When it comes to choosing footwear, most of us tend to think about what we might wear to specific places or during specific activities. Choosing the right footwear is crucial for various activities, such as heading out to work, taking a walk, or running errands. Each of these activities demands specific features from your shoes to ensure comfort throughout the day. However, one area that is often overlooked is what we wear on our feet when we return home or start our day. Let’s explore the various benefits of wearing indoor footwear and how this simple habit can contribute to overall foot well-being.
Footwear
Similar to how your outdoor footwear provides necessary support for various activities, indoor footwear also plays a critical role in providing adequate support for your feet Many indoor footwear options are designed with features like strong arch support, soft cushioning, a stable sole, and firm heel counters. These features work together to keep your feet and lower legs well-supported, especially when you’re on your feet and moving around indoors. For those experiencing foot pain, such as plantar fasciitis or Morton’s neuromas, selecting footwear with these features is crucial to managing their symptoms and overcoming the conditions. When we return home after a day away, many of us have various tasks to tackle around the house. This is especially true for those who work from home, manage household chores, and care for a loved one throughout the day. Interestingly, for a significant number of people, their indoor footwear turns out to be the most frequently worn type of footwear overall!
Not only does your footwear support your feet, but it is also responsible for protecting them as well. Wearing appropriate footwear is important for distributing pressure evenly, particularly away from sensitive areas of the foot, such as calluses and corns. It also provides a protective barrier to ensure that nothing rubs against the foot during movement. This becomes especially important for individuals dealing with conditions like peripheral neuropathy or diabetes. Always maintaining foot protection, even at home, becomes essential to minimise the risk of skin damage or the development of pressure sores. Additionally, clean indoor footwear can help to reduce the spread of pathogens, such as skin and nail fungal infections.
Regulating your foot temperature is another important aspect of maintaining foot health. Soft, insulated slippers are excellent at keeping your feet warm during the colder months of the year and they also help to create some distance between you and colder surfaces like tile or wood floors. On the other hand, sandals can be an excellent choice for keeping your feet cooler during the warmer months while ensuring an open and breathable experience, which can be very comfortable for those who like to have less around their feet. For either preference, temperature regulation can make a big difference for foot comfort, especially for those with arthritis, Raynaud’s disease, and certain circulatory conditions.
So, what should you look to wear on your feet while you are indoors? We tend to recommend soft, supportive, and seamless slippers for a casual yet secure fit, or a structured and well-fitting sandal for those wanting less around their feet. For those who stay active around the house during the day, a dedicated indoor running or walking shoe might be preferable or necessary for added support. When choosing footwear, prioritize options that feel lightweight and provide a comfortable fit. The goal is to find shoes you could wear for extended periods without feeling any compromise in comfort.
Custom Orthotics
If you need more support, look for footwear options that will accommodate your custom orthotics to ensure the best possible experience. Many excellent brands of slippers and sandals come with removable insoles to accommodate your orthotics. We also offer a variety of indoor footwear options, including those with removable insoles, at our BioPed clinics. Visit us today to choose your soon-to-be favourite indoor footwear and step into a world of happy and healthy foot comfort.
Come See Us!
Don’t let lower limb pain get in the way of doing the things you love to do. Please book an appointment with us today! At BioPed Footcare, whether its orthotics, footwear or bracing we are here for you. With our on-site lab there is nothing we can’t do! Meet with one of BioPed’s lower limb clinicians to see how you can keep your feet and legs healthy!
