When you think about supportive footwear, you usually think of shoes you put on when leaving your house to engage in activities. However, for many people, the hours spent barefoot or in socks at home quietly add up and can have a bigger impact on the lower extremities than expected.
Wearing indoor shoes is a simple yet effective way to combat foot fatigue, helping you stay comfortable and able to do more in everyday life. Here are five surprising benefits of wearing indoor shoes.
More Support During Your Everyday Movements
Most of our steps inside the home are not long walks; rather, they are short trips to the kitchen, standing to fold laundry, and playing with the kids or pets. But over time, standing and walking on hard surfaces without support can place extra stress on the feet and the rest of the lower extremities. Look for shoes that have:
- Cushioning and support: the cushioning will absorb the shock from heel strike, and good arch support will offload the heel and align the foot properly. This is especially important for people who spend a lot of time on hardwood or concrete floors.
- Firm heel counter: will support the ankle and properly align the foot into a neutral position. This is important for people who overpronate or oversupinate when walking.
Better Alignment from the Ground Up
What you wear on your feet greatly influences how your entire body moves. When the foot is not supported properly, the foot may roll or collapse (overpronate), which can affect the alignment of the lower extremity. Shoes that hold the feet in a neutral position can help encourage more efficient movement patterns during daily activities. Seeking advice from a BioPed clinician on the style of shoe best suited for you, and possibly pairing it with a custom orthotic, can positively impact the overall comfort of your lower extremities.
Less Fatigue by the End of the Day
Many clients are surprised that they feel just as tired or often times more tired and achy after a day at home. Being barefoot or in socks for long periods of time can cause the muscles in the feet and legs to work harder to provide stability, and the heels have to absorb the entire shock from the heel strike with every step. Indoor shoes can significantly reduce the workload placed on the foot muscles by supporting the arch and cradling the heel. Just like outdoor shoes, indoor shoes should be replaced when they get worn out to maximize the support and comfort for your feet.
A Cleaner, Healthier Environment for Your Feet
Your feet are exposed to a lot of environmental factors, even when in your house. Wearing indoor shoes creates a barrier between your feet and the floor, which can be helpful for skin and foot health. This is especially important in people with diabetes and those who have neuropathy. Even a small cut or abrasion on the foot of someone with diabetes can spell disaster. It can lead to ulcers or amputation if left untreated. Look for breathable materials such as mesh, or opt for a sandal to reduce the possibility of moisture, which helps reduce the risk of fungal infections. Also, making sure the shoe is seamless can prevent irritations such as blisters, calluses or corns.
Small Habit That Supports Long-Term Foot Care
When combined with other strategies such as supportive outdoor footwear, orthotics, stretching and strengthening exercises, indoor shoes can play a major role in the overall health of your feet. They are a small change, but one that can have a great impact on your comfort at the end of the day.
Indoor shoes are a simple change that many people overlook, yet they can have a noticeable impact on foot function, health and comfort. Small, consistent habits can help you do more in life. If you are unsure which indoor shoe is right for you or need any advice about lower extremity health, visit a BioPed clinic. Our clinicians can help guide you towards the best options for you.
