Best Shoes For Other Foot While in Boot
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM ranks other foot shoes. Call (810) 206-1402.
In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle
If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your foot and ankle conditions, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with expert evaluations and advanced in-office care.
VitaMedica Arnica Gel
Natural topical relief I recommend for sore feet: an arnica gel with 15 homeopathic ingredients and soothing aloe. Massage a thin layer into the sore area.
Shop VitaMedica Arnica Gel →Frequently Asked Questions
How long do these shoes last?
Quality running shoes last 300-500 miles. Daily walking shoes last 9-12 months. Replace when the midsole feels soft or your symptoms return.
Should I add insoles?
Yes if you have plantar fasciitis or overpronation. Powerstep Pinnacle or a custom orthotic improves results. Healthy feet often do fine with the stock insole.
Are expensive shoes worth it?
Beyond about $130 most extra cost is materials and aesthetics. Match the shoe to your foot type, not budget. The right $80 stability shoe beats the wrong $250 maximalist shoe.
Appointments in Howell & Bloomfield Township
Three board-certified podiatric surgeons. 1,200+ five-star reviews. Most insurance accepted.
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified foot & ankle surgeon (ABFAS & ABPM) at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has made him one of the most-followed foot & ankle educators on YouTube.
More questions patients ask
What shoes should I wear with a walking boot?
Wear a shoe-leveler (Even-Up) on the opposite foot to match the walking boot height. Otherwise, the height difference creates scoliosis-like compensation causing back, knee, and hip pain. Best opposite shoes: HOKA Bondi 8 (similar height naturally), Brooks Glycerin (cushioned), or any shoe with shoe leveler attached. Avoid: flat sandals, dress shoes, very low-profile shoes.
What is an Even-Up shoe leveler?
Even-Up shoe leveler is a removable height-balancing device that attaches to the bottom of your shoe to match the height of a walking boot. Sold on Amazon ($30-40). Available in different heights to match your specific boot. Strapping system attaches over your shoe. Reduces back, hip, and knee pain dramatically during walking boot use. Worth the investment.
How do I prevent back pain from my walking boot?
Strategies: 1) Even-Up shoe leveler on opposite foot (most important). 2) Cushioned shoe on opposite foot. 3) Take smaller steps. 4) Periodic seated breaks. 5) Hip and back stretches twice daily. 6) Ice opposite hip if developing pain. 7) Limit time on hard surfaces. 8) Sleep with pillow between knees. Most patients can prevent compensatory pain with the leveler alone.
Still have a question about coverage or cost? Book online and we will check your benefits before your visit: Book in Howell · Book in Bloomfield Township. Prefer to talk it through first? Call (810) 206-1402.