Wearing the wrong shoes can worsen gout?

Gout, an acute arthritis caused by hyperuricemia, brings severe pain and discomfort to patients. However, did you know that in addition to diet and lifestyle habits, the choice of shoes may also affect gout. Research by Dr. Keith Rome of the University of Auckland in New Zealand has revealed this little-known connection.
Dr. Rohm's study: Shoe-wearing habits of gout patients
Dr. Rom's research team evaluated the shoe-wearing habits of 50 gout patients and found that many gout patients suffer from increased pain, tissue damage, and even the risk of mobility problems due to wearing the wrong shoes.

The study showed that only 56% of respondents chose the right shoes, e.g.

Track and field shoes: Provide good shock absorption and support.
Walking shoes: Comfortable and breathable for everyday activities.
Oxford shoes (gentleman's shoes): provide stable support and are suitable for formal occasions.

However, up to 44% of patients wear footwear that may aggravate gout symptoms, such as:

Flat sandals: Lack adequate support and shock absorption.
Flip-flops: unstable and prone to foot injuries.
Ordinary slippers: Lack of support and can easily cause foot fatigue.
Deerskin boots: The material is hard and may rub against the feet, increasing pain.

The Importance of Shoes and Gout Management
Dr. Rom noted that many gout patients wear shoes that provide insufficient shock absorption, support, and stability. Furthermore, over half of those surveyed wore the same pair of shoes for over a year, causing significant wear and tear. However, they delayed replacing them due to cost factors, further exacerbating gout pain.

Previous studies have also shown that gout cases are increasing year by year and are the most common type of inflammatory arthritis in men. Obesity may also aggravate the pain of wearing shoes for gout patients.
Suggestions for choosing shoes for gout patients
Dr. Rom's research reminds us that gout patients should consider a variety of factors when choosing shoes and choose shoes that meet the following conditions:

Adequate foot space: Avoid shoes that are too tight and put pressure on the feet.
Good support: Provides adequate support to reduce joint burden.
Excellent shock absorption effect: absorbs impact and protects joints.
Stable sole: avoids slipping and ensures safety.
Breathable material: keeps feet dry and prevents infection.

In addition, it is recommended to replace shoes regularly to avoid excessive wear and tear of shoes, which may affect wearing comfort and joint health.

Summary
Management of goutChoosing the right shoes is crucial, not just for diet and medication. Gout patients should choose shoes that offer good support, shock absorption, and stability, avoiding shoes that may exacerbate pain. This can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. If you have any gout-related concerns, consult a professional physician promptly for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.