Muhammad Ali said: “It isn’t the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out. It’s the pebble in your shoe”. For people with Morton’s Neuroma, it’s not a metaphor.
The condition pretty much feels like having a pebble in a shoe. It may go away by itself, but some people end up having surgery to remove the pressure on the affected nerve.
We found our best shoes for Morton’s Neuroma to be Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit for women and Orthofeet Edgewater for men.
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Investing in the best shoes for Morton’s Neuroma could be very helpful. Wearing the right shoes can certainly alleviate the pain. Sometimes it’s enough to wear proper shoes to get rid of this and other associated foot problems.
Here’s the list of the top three choices for women and men:
Table of Contents
Top 3 Choices for Woman
Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit – Black
When it comes to foot problems, you can’t go wrong with Orthofeet. They fully focus on the production of super comfortable shoes that alleviate a variety of feet issues. Coral Stretch is one of their most popular models.
It’s a well-rounded shoe that fulfills all quality requirements to help with foot ailments. It was carefully designed to provide ultimate comfort and support.
While we have different feet and there are no shoes that fit everyone perfectly, these are about as good as it gets.
Pros:
- Supreme innovative cushioning system.
- Stretchable, non-binding construction uppers increase comfort and eliminate pressure points.
- Soft interior for additional comfort.
- Removable insoles.
- Free delivery in the US.
Cons:
- According to some users – not the prettiest model out there. Opinions differ, though.
Vionic Women’s Brisk Miles Sneaker
Vionic is another shoe brand dedicated to helping people with foot issues. Vionic Brisk Miles is a versatile model designed to meet different needs.
Maybe it’s not an office shoe, but it will cover most other activities, be it running, walking, shopping, or traveling.
While these shoes have many helpful features, they stand out for their lightness and exceptional breathability.
Pros:
- APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) approved.
- Lightweight and breathable.
- Special podiatrist-designed footbed.
- Heel cup provides excellent support while allowing a full range of movement.
Cons:
- Could be more durable.
Dansko Women’s Waterproof Sneaker
If you prefer more rugged, yet stylish sneakers for walking, hiking, and more, Dansko Paisley is a great choice.
These shoes have been awarded the APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting foot health.
Excellent support and well-balanced cushioning provide stability and maximum comfort. Suede leather makes them look good and they are also waterproof.
Pros:
- Waterproof nubuck leather.
- Triple-density footbed with arch support and shock absorption.
- Vibram soles provide durability, flexibility, and slip-resistant properties.
- Very durable.
- Stylish and supportive.
Cons:
- A little bit heavy.
Top 3 Choices for Men
Orthofeet Edgewater Stretch Knit
The competition is quite strong, but Orthofeet Edgewater is my favorite for people with Morton’s Neuroma. Actually, they provide relief for almost any other foot ailment.
The comfort, shock absorption, support, soft, padded interior, wide toe box, you name the requirement, they have the answer.
While no shoes are a magical cure for foot problems, this model has very few shortcomings unless expectations are a little high.
In reality, you may need a doctor or perhaps a physical fitness regime. But wearing these shoes should add up to a more comfortable experience overall when active.
Pros:
- Exceptional cushioning system.
- Designed to eliminate pressure.
- Fitting spacers. Insert or remove an additional spacer for a perfect, snug fit.
- Stretchable upper for extra comfort.
- 60-day free trial period.
Cons:
- Not for cold weather.
Gravity Defyer Men’s G-Defy
This is another great shoe tuned for people with foot problems. These shoes are so comfortable that you’ll forget about the rest of your shoes.
Clinical studies have shown that G-Defy significantly alleviates foot pain, as well as ankle, knee, and back pain. It’s an athletic and therapeutic model, but it’s also stylish and comes in many different colors.
VersoShock patented sole technology provides fantastic stability and reduces foot stress.
Pros:
- Soft, padded interior.
- Exceptional support.
- Great shock absorption for long walks or standing all day.
- Two extra inserts for arch support and additional cushioning.
Cons:
- On the more expensive side.
Dr. Comfort Performance
Dr. Comfort manufactures a broad range of diabetic shoes for all kinds of occasions. This model is one of their flagship products for a good reason.
While they are called “diabetic shoes”, they help with a wide variety of foot conditions, Morton’s Neuroma included.
Leather and mesh upper provide excellent support and breathability. Generous toe box and extra depth provide comfort and relief for those with arthritis, diabetic feet, Morton’s Neuroma, or other foot issues.
Pros:
- Breathable and comfortable.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra-wide width.
- Reinforced heel cups provide excellent stability and side support.
- Easy to put on and off – no-tie lace closure.
Cons:
- Not so sturdy.
About Morton’s Neuroma
As you probably know if you’re reading this Morton’s Neuroma is where a nerve is damaged in the toes normally between the 2nd & 3rd.
It can be caused or exacerbated by unsuitable footwear, being very sporty or connected to pre-existing issues with the feet like high arches, hammertoes, etc.
Benefits of Therapeutic Shoes
Proper shoes are very important even for people with healthy feet. But, when it comes to foot ailments it’s essential to wear correct, specially designed shoes.
It’s not an instant solution and universal cure, but it prevents aggravation and provides relief and a foothold (pun intended) for faster recovery.
Several clinical trials and papers have shown that properly designed shoes significantly alleviate or even eradicate and moderate Morton’s Neuroma pain.
Therapeutic shoes are designed to relieve the pressure and provide stability, support, and comfort. All these things contribute and help ease the pain in numerous foot conditions including Morton’s Neuroma.
Required Features
You’d like most of these features in your regular shoes as well, but in cases of foot problems, some features are fundamental.
Right Size and Fit
It sounds obvious, but the right fit is not the same for people with Morton’s Neuroma or similar foot issues. It all comes down to toe box. It needs to be wider and deeper to allow some wiggle room and to avoid pressure if you have swollen feet.
You should also look for shoes with stretchable upper and soft interior to eliminate friction and decrease pressure.
If your shoes aren’t a perfect fit, they want work. They can even make the condition worse.
Cushioning
A high-quality cushioning system is essential for comfort, but it does more than that. The main function of cushioning is to absorb shock and stress. Typically it is placed in the midsole. Extra cushioning can be added in the insole to help as well.
Arch Support
Proper arch support is also very important especially if you walk a lot or are particularly active on your feet.
Supporting the arch works in tandem with the cushioning to provide shock absorbance and to relieve pressure. It can also help to control overpronation and improve your posture, bone alignment, and gait.
Low or Zero Drop
High-drop shoes increase the pressure on the bones in the ball of the foot and that’s a big no-no if you have Morton’s Neuroma. So, look for the model with low or zero drop from heel to toes.
Removable Insoles
Modern technologies help, but we all have different feet. Even the best-designed shoes won’t be a perfect fit for everyone. Therefore, highly-regarded manufacturers produce excellent but removable insoles. If you need custom-made insoles you can use them instead of the original ones.
Things to Avoid When Buying Morton’s Neuroma Shoes
Some of the dedicated, therapeutic shoes are pretty expensive. The trouble is, the pricey shoes are often better – funny that.
Forget about the narrow toe box. Your shoes should be snug but wiggle room is necessary. So, a wide and deep toe box is what you’re looking for.
Forget about your favorite, very old shoes. Or all old shoes for that matter. Even if they look good and sturdy, shoes lose certain properties over time.
Continual use increases the points of wear and any worn-out part of the shoe will cause the feet placement to be exaggerated which may make any existing condition worse.
Forget about high heels. High heels actually can cause Morton’s Neuroma. So, stick with flat or low-drop shoes with no or low heels.
Conclusion
Finding the right pair of shoes for Morton’s Neuroma can be difficult. Especially, if you want them to be stylish. As you could see, it is possible, though.
Our top choices for both women and men come from Orthofeet.
In all honesty, they won by a whisker because all models in our list are great, at least when it comes to quality and dealing with foot conditions.
A wide toe box comes in four different widths. Ergonomic outsoles and advanced arch support provide maximum stability and perfect alignment of your bones.
Superb cushioning, stretchable upper, and very soft interior provide ultimate comfort. And you also get an additional pair of spacers to get a perfect fit.
With a 60 day free trial, full-refund period, and free delivery throughout the US, they‘ve really covered it all.
The bottom line is that all of the manufacturers on our list are dedicated to producing helpful and functional shoes. Whichever you choose, hopefully, you won’t regret it.
Check out our other articles on sports and casual shoes.