Stable Shoes Help Knee OA More Than Flat Flexible Shoes; Hip OA Results Remain Mixed
Two clinical trials show knee osteoarthritis patients benefit more from stable, supportive shoes, reducing walking pain by about 63% over six months compared with flat flexible shoes; flat flexible footwear may lower knee forces but can increase foot pain and did not outperform stability for hip OA. For hip OA, neither shoe type clearly improves hip pain. Older adults should avoid ill-fitting or high heels due to fall risk, while younger individuals not at fall risk should also avoid high heels to minimize joint forces. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized footwear advice and combine choices with exercise and weight management.
