When you work on your feet all day, you know that the right pair of shoes can make all the difference in how your body feels at the end of the day. After completing a course of physical therapy to rebuild strength and help alleviate those aches and low back pain caused by work, you need to upgrade your footwear to keep the pain from coming back. If you’re not sure what to look for, you’re not alone. Luckily, it’s easier than you might think. Here are a few key features to look for when choosing the best and most supportive shoes for your shifts.

Choose the Right Type of Sole
Before you start shopping for shoes, think about the types of surfaces and environments you’ll be working in. If you work outside and need grip on natural terrain, look for soles with deep tread that will help you maintain your footing at all times. If you work on polished floors indoors and regularly deal with spills, a non-slip sole will be a better choice. The right sole can make all the difference in reducing your risk of future slip-and-fall injuries. This can help you stay out of pain and reduces your chances of needing physical therapy in the future.

Pay Attention to Your Arch Support
One of the biggest causes of ongoing pain in the low back, hips, knees, and even ankles is due to inadequate arch support. Your foot needs to be properly cradled in the shoe to keep your muscles and bones in the right alignment. If you choose a shoe that doesn’t have the right type of arch support, you’ll put unnecessary strain on the rest of your body. When you start trying on different pairs, pay attention to the amount of support each shoe provides. If it’s good, but not ideal, you can always add insoles to improve support.

Consider Toe Protection
It’s normal to drop items throughout the day. When those items are light, they fall without hurting you even if they land directly on your foot and toes. However, if they’re heavy, those dropped items can lead to broken toes and bones in your foot. Though these can heal, you’ll likely need extensive physical therapy to regain your full mobility. Choosing shoes with steel toes and crush-resistant support can help protect your feet from those injuries. 

Pick Comfort Over Style Every Time
No matter what type of shoe you’re considering, never compromise comfort for style. It’s far better to choose an ugly shoe that feels great on your feet than it is to choose a stylish option that leaves you hurting after a few minutes. Pay attention to the way each shoe feels and go with the ones that feel best.

Choose the Right Shoes and Spare Yourself Future Pain
The right pair of shoes can help you avoid pain and reduce the severity of repetitive use injuries. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be able to pick the right shoe every single time. If the shoes aren’t enough and you’re still dealing with pain, don’t wait. Make an appointment with a physical therapist now.