We know how uncomfortable it can be to live with edema. Having fluids pool up in certain parts of your body can cause much pain and ache, especially when it is left untreated. This is why you should take precautionary actions by picking up healthy habits that relieve edema such as an active lifestyle and a low-sodium diet. Another way to help with edema is to get proper items that will help apply pressure to the affected body parts. One such simple item is the shoe. With a good shoe, you no longer will have to live with the discomfort of your condition. Read on to learn how to choose the right footwear for older adults with edema.
Types of Footwear for Edema
There is footwear designed specifically to help your feet fit in comfortably and reduce the pains that you might have otherwise experienced with edema. See which footwear below most suits your needs.
- Extra Width Slippers
These slippers are made with plush materials that minimize friction on the feet while walking. Their large width is supportive of swollen feet and can reduce discomfort. These slippers are also non-slip, preventing fall accidents from happening
- Stretchy Shoes
Stretchy shoes are able to stretch and expand to accommodate the extra width of your feet when they are swollen. They also come with ergonomic soles to relieve the aches that your feet feel when dealing with edema.
- Velcro Extra Wide Slippers
Velcro helps to secure the footwear on your feet. They make taking off and putting on your footwear much easier than shoelaces do. These shoes are recommended for those with mobility issues who have trouble bending over and tying shoelaces. The security that Velcro provides will ensure that the shoe will not cause you to trip.
What to Look for in a Footwear
Now that you know what footwear there are out there to alleviate swollen feet, let’s take a look at what you should be considering when choosing which footwear suits you best.
- Comfortable Fit
The most important thing to consider when selecting shoes is how it fits on your feet. Different brands of footwear offer different widths to choose from. Take a look at your own feet and see which width best fits your feet. Make sure that it isn’t too tight but snug enough that you can walk comfortably around.
- Breathable Materials
Edema can cause your feet to sweat more than usual. To counteract this issue, choose footwear that is made of breathable materials such as polyester and rayon.
- Traction Outsoles
It is important to reduce the chances of falling for aging adults. Traction outsoles are made of rubber and are anti-slip to prevent trip and fall accidents. These outsoles are also firm and lightweight so as to provide comfort for swollen feet
- Arch Support
The insoles are another crucial part of the footwear. Insoles that provide arch support and relieve the pain of swollen feet. They do this by absorbing the shock when walking and reducing the pressure felt by the feet.
