Shoes that work
Several shoe manufacturers bill their products as "foot friendly."
7/2007
Several shoe manufacturers bill their products as "foot friendly." To test that claim, we asked Greg Cohen, D.P.M., an attending physician at Long Island College Hospital in New York, for his expert opinion on three popular brands. (from top)
BIRKENSTOCK: "Many sandals are flimsy and flat, but these have built-in arch support and straps that keep the foot securely in the sandal," says Cohen. "They're a good alternative for patients who use orthotics but can't wear them in warm-weather sandal styles."
BIRKENSTOCK: "Many sandals are flimsy and flat, but these have built-in arch support and straps that keep the foot securely in the sandal," says Cohen. "They're a good alternative for patients who use orthotics but can't wear them in warm-weather sandal styles."
MBT (MASAI BAREFOOT TECHNOLOGY): "The shoe's sole is designed to create a rocking motion, which is supposed to reduce the ground reaction forces so the heel and arch take less pressure," says Cohen. "This reduced pressure could help people with plantar fasciitis or those who experience heel or arch pain."
EARTH: "The heel sits lower than the front of the foot so it feels almost as if you're walking uphill. This strengthens the muscles of the foot and leg. The lower heel can also be therapeutic for those who suffer from heel pain as the incline helps stretch the Achilles tendon," explains Cohen.
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