Having severe leg pain? Your shoes could be to blame

Wearing uncomfortable shoes

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons notes that properly fitted athletic shoes provide cushioning, stability, and support for the natural mechanics of the foot.

Without this support, the body often compensates, putting extra strain on the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, ankles, knees, and lower back. Blisters can also appear if shoes are too tight or too loose.

Properly fitted athletic shoes should allow space about the width of your big toe in front of the longest toe, and the heel should be secure but not too tight.

When buying shoes, keep in mind that feet swell during exercise, so it’s best to shop later in the day or after a workout.

Wearing worn-out shoes

Worn shoes fail to absorb impact effectively or control foot movement, increasing the risk of misalignment and overuse injuries.

Orthopedist Joshua Treimer explains that the challenge is that shoes can look fine even when their function has diminished. One way to check is by noticing recurring pain or new aches during the same level of activity that didn’t previously cause problems—this indicates it’s time to replace your shoes.

Choosing shoes for activity

Most athletic shoes can be used for multiple activities, but for the best fit and function, it’s recommended to consider the main movements of your sport and choose shoes accordingly.

Wearing non-athletic shoes in the gym

Some footwear is suitable for exercise, but others, like boots or slippers with thick linings, are not.

Not all shoes are designed for physical activity. Problematic shoes for the gym are often unstable, bulky, or lack cushioning or arch support.

Training barefoot on hard surfaces (e.g., at home) can also increase stress on the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon.

Tips for healthy feet

To keep your feet healthy:

• Replace sneakers annually—more often if you exercise frequently. Signs you need new shoes include compressed or deformed midsole, uneven wear, or visible creases.

• See a doctor for pain—many overuse injuries start with mild discomfort. Consult a physician, preferably an orthopedist, if you experience foot or ankle pain, skin changes, burning, or numbness, especially if you have diabetes.

This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.