My question refers to an answer you provided regarding heel pain and calcaneal spurs. In your response, you mentioned the importance of using supportive footwear or orthotics to help reduce strain on the heel. 'm looking for both shoes suitable for office wear and comfortable chappals for home use. Some of my friends have also suggested using good-quality sports shoes with gel heel inserts for extra cushioning. I’d appreciate your thoughts on whether this approach is effective and, if so, what types of inserts or shoes I should consider. I'm aiming to purchase footwear that will provide long-term relief and comfort both at work and at home.

Ans: Thank you for your question, and I'm glad you reached out regarding the footwear options. While I am a physiotherapist and not an orthotist or podiatrist, I can offer insights based on my experience and personal use of always wearing shoes to prevent injuries and heel pain. Using sports shoes with gel heel inserts is an effective strategy for managing heel pain and calcaneal spurs. These shoes often provide better cushioning, arch support, and shock absorption, which helps reduce strain on the heel. The gel inserts offer additional padding, alleviating pressure and making walking more comfortable.

For office wear, I recommend shoes with cushioned soles to reduce the impact on your heels, good arch support to help distribute pressure evenly, and a wide toe box for added comfort, especially if you're on your feet for long periods. At home, orthopedic chappals or sandals with cushioned insoles and soft soles can provide the necessary support. Look for options that have an ergonomic design to support proper foot alignment and soft cushioning, like memory foam or gel-based insoles, for added comfort. Also foot wear must be light weight and sturdy.

While this advice is based on my personal experience of always wearing shoes particularly sports shoes, I would still recommend consulting an orthotist for more personalized guidance. However, ensuring your footwear offers sufficient cushioning and support is a great approach to managing heel pain along with Physiotherapy. Unfortunately I cannot recommend brands however I use Redtape walking sports shoes. Hope that helps