![\"\"](\"https:\/\/bonejoint.net\/old\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/58948277_s.jpeg\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Boots! A necessity when braving Wisconsin winters.<\/strong><\/p>\n Walking through the snow, ice, and frigid temperatures of Central Wisconsin requires great tread and weatherproof warmth.<\/p>\n Good boots support your foot and provide protection against the elements, but that protection adds weight to your feet, which can stress and strain your joints.<\/p>\n Are your winter boots causing joint pain?<\/strong><\/p>\n Possibly. If your boots are too heavy, they can lead to pain in your ankles, knees, and hips. The weight of some boots mimics the effect of ankle weights.<\/p>\n But orthopedic specialists, physical therapists, and kinesiotherapists do not recommend wearing weights on your feet or ankles because the risk of injury far outweighs the benefits.<\/p>\n Heavy boots stress your joints<\/strong><\/p>\n Boots can change the way your foot hits the ground, cause balance issues, and strain your muscles and ligaments.<\/p>\n Be aware of how your legs and feet feel during and after you wear your boots. Do you:<\/p>\n Over time, heavy boots can stretch and pull your ligaments causing tendonitis, the painful inflammation of the tendon or the tendon sheath.<\/p>\n If you experience any of the symptoms above after wearing boots, they may be too heavy.<\/p>\n Fit is key to comfort and health<\/strong><\/p>\n Whether you\u2019re looking for boots to wear outside in winter, hike in fall or you\u2019re required to wear safety boots on the job, choosing the right boot will make a difference.<\/p>\n Gone are the days when we had to \u201cbreak-in\u201d our shoes for comfort. The use of modern materials and technological design removes the need to soften leather uppers or relax the soles.<\/p>\n Today\u2019s footwear should feel good as soon as we put it on our feet.<\/p>\n Arch support.<\/strong>\u00a0Choosing the right arch support can prevent symptoms of plantar fasciitis, provide a solid foundation for each step, and support your leg health.<\/p>\n Heel height.<\/strong>\u00a0Higher heels tilt your hips forward, straining your knees, hips, and lower back.<\/p>\n Insulation and breathability.<\/strong>\u00a0Keeping your feet at a comfortable temperature is important for foot health. Your boots should keep the cold out while wicking moisture away from your feet.<\/p>\n Reinforced steel toe.<\/strong>\u00a0Does your job require you to wear steel-toe shoes? If so, make sure the toe box is large enough for comfort and allows your foot to bend in the right places. The reinforced area should not pinch or cause discomfort.<\/p>\n Cushioning.<\/strong>\u00a0The inside of the shoe is as important as the outside. The inside should cushion your foot as your foot strikes the ground. It should provide solid contact without pain.<\/p>\n For the best fit, try on boots at the end of the day. If you need a lighter boot, try swapping leather uppers for synthetic leather or a weatherproof mesh.<\/p>\n Many shoe stores allow you to test boots or shoes by wearing them for a day or two inside your home. Ask the salesperson about the policy and then take your new boots home for a short trial to test their weight.<\/p>\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/bonejoint.net\/old\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/8377328_s.jpeg\")
\nThings to consider when choosing new boots.<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/bonejoint.net\/old\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/84351512_s.jpeg\")
Tread.<\/strong>\u00a0Do you walk on uneven surfaces? Do you need a non-slip tread for walking on water or ice? Does your job require you to work in areas where oil or other liquids are on the floor? If you work in a special environment, ask a knowledgeable salesperson which type of tread would work best for you.<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>
\nYour feet retain more water and expand in the afternoon and evening. Wear your work socks or the thickest socks you will wear with your boots.<\/p>\n