Effect of the shoe
The main benefits of the Hallux Valgus shoe are pressure relief and pain reduction. Walking and standing are everyday activities that can severely restrict the quality of life in cases of constant pain. This is to be prevented by the special shoe. It offers the foot considerable comfort, makes walking easier, supports the foot in its arch structure with small cushions, stretches shortened tendons, and above all it provides space for the forefoot and takes the load off the affected big toe joint. Like other conventional measures, the shoe cannot heal the Hallux valgus malposition, but it does help the foot to limit symptoms and prevent the malposition from worsening.
Where do I buy the shoe
Meanwhile many Internet sites offer special shoes, as well as for the Hallux Valgus, which particularly irritate with the fact that they have a more elegant appearance and go away from the classical clunky medicine shoe. To order orthopedic shoes online is however inadvisable. Wearing comfort and a perfect fit are crucial for optimal support.
The shoe should therefore be tried on and tested before purchase. Ideally, the treating orthopedist recommends a specialist store with trained staff who can help you find the right shoe. In order to get reimbursed by the health insurance company, the shoes must also be bought in such an orthopedic specialty store.
Whether and how much of the costs are covered depends on the respective health insurance company, as well as the extent of the malposition and thus the necessity of the shoe. The conventional Hallux Valgus shoes cost 30-50€. Chic shoes with modern design, which can be found mainly on the Internet, are with about 100€ shoes of the slightly more expensive class. Specially and individually fitted shoes start at several hundred euros.
Which shoe after the operation
If the Hallux valgus malposition is treated surgically, the foot is then partially or fully relieved of weight for a few weeks, depending on the doctor’s instructions, using a forefoot relief shoe. After healing, normal shoes can be worn again.However, even when buying ordinary shoes, care should be taken to ensure that the size is correct, that there are no pressure points, that the forefoot has enough room, but that the entire foot has sufficient support. High-heeled shoes should be avoided.
Magic words for shoes of healthy feet are fitting, flat and comfortable. In spite of comfort and space, they should offer support through a stable footbed and a decent sole. More information about a hallux valgus and surgery can be found here: Physiotherapy for a hallux valgus
