One of the big questions facing anyone dealing with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA) is what footwear to wear?  The Consumer Advisory Board wanted answers and went to Adam Janke, a Certified Pedorthist at Paris Orthotics Ltd.  A Pedorthist is a specialist who assess, design, manufacture, fit and modify foot appliances and footwear for people with foot problems. This is what he said:

In the casual, walking, and athletic shoe realm there are a relatively high number of orthopedically-oriented shoes available.  Whether you are looking for width, cushioning or support or the ability to accommodate custom orthotics, there are many shoes on the market to help keep you active and healthy.  However, when it comes to sandals that satisfy these needs the options are a little more limited.  Thankfully, over the past number of years various companies have started producing sandals that are both orthopedically appropriate and good-looking!  The sandals can be separated into two broad categories:  supportive sandals with non-removable factory footbeds and supportive sandals with removable footbeds that accommodate custom foot orthoses.  The key to selecting the most appropriate sandal for your needs is to go to a store where the staff is experienced in working with OA and RA.  A variety of shops carry the majority of the brands listed below.

Supportive Sandals with Non-Removable Insoles:

• Birkenstock
• Mephisto
• Sole Platinum Flips
• Olukai (various models)
• Montrail Molokai (men’s) or Molokini (women’s)
• Superfeet Flip

Supportive Sandals with Removable Insoles (accommodate custom orthotics where required):

• Naot
• Wolky
• Aravon