Goldilock's Rule For Back Pain Causing Shoes

Approximately 80 percent of Americans suffer from back pain at some point in their lives, and many people turn to medication or surgery for relief.

Too much activity, as well as prolonged sitting or standing can leave you with an achy back – but where does it all begin? It may come as a surprise – but your own two feet!

Good posture begins with our feet, and without the proper supportive foundation, how can we feel grounded through the rest of our bodies? An ill-fitting pair of shoes can strain the back as well as cause pain in the ankles, knees, and hips – all the way up to your neck!

Peggy says that an ill-fitting pair of shoes can strain your back and also cause pain in your ankles, knees and hips -- even your neck.

Here's why: High-heeled shoes put all your weight on the ball of the foot, which causes your lower back to over-arch. The other shoe-extreme – shoes with a very thin sole (think flip-flops or ballet flats) – are also the enemy. There is no padding between the foot and the ground, causing the shock of each step’s impact to be absorbed by the spine.

"Think like Goldilocks," Peggy, the yoga instructor and wellness expert in the video says. "Choose a shoe with a heel that's not too high, not too low....but just right."

A supportive shoe with at least a half-inch thick sole is ideal – something with nice padding but that is also level. Also make sure your shoes fit well (not too tight and not too big), and that they are repaired when the heel starts to wear down, otherwise you’re walking on an uneven surface which can cause strain directly to the back.

For immediate relief, Peggy recommends this easy back stretch, which anyone can do: Put your hands on the edge of a desk or table, walk back and stretch your spine long.

"Basically, your back is parallel to the floor and your arms are in line with your ears," Peggy explains. "Just stretch to your point of sensation -- easy does it! Don't over do it. Just a minute or two every day will do the trick."

Make Your Whole Body Happy and don't overlook or neglect this "hidden" cause of back pain. Invest in a good pair of shoes that give you the right amount of support, like ours, and replace them every 300 miles or so (roughly every 3 months)  so you can always be walking on the best foundation! 

Learn how Therafit Shoes can help ease your back, knee, leg, and foot pain!