Swollen feet can be a common issue, especially for those who spend long hours on their feet, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health conditions. This swelling can make finding comfortable, well-fitting shoes a challenge. But don't worry, at The OrthoFit Store, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll guide you in finding the best extra wide shoes for swollen feet.

Understanding Swollen Feet

Swollen feet, medically known as edema, can be caused by a variety of factors. These include prolonged standing or sitting, a high-salt diet, certain medications, and health conditions like kidney disease or heart failure.

"As the feet swell, the normal size a person wears will feel too tight. But aside from feeling too tight, other complications can arise. The skin will be irritated, potentially causing blisters that can become infected."

Swollen feet don't heal well or quickly, and chronic ulcers or sores can develop. Deformities, such as bunions and bunionettes (little toe side bunions), rub in the shoe even more with swelling. This can lead to blisters, ulcers or sores, painful corns, and jamming of the toes, causing pain.

Swollen feet tend to bulge out the sides of the normal shoe. The foot is wider so that the regular size can't contain the foot, and the foot pushes out over the sole becoming unstable. This can lead to falls and injuries.

Another potential issue with swollen feet in poorly fitting shoes is nerve injury. The tight shoe compresses the very superficial nerves on the top of the foot, causing pain or even numbness. At the ball of the foot, between the metatarsals, the nerves going to the toes can be compressed, causing nerve pain, numbness, and neuromas.

Given these potential issues, it's clear that choosing the right footwear is crucial for individuals with swollen feet.

Criteria for Choosing Extra Wide Shoes

When it comes to choosing shoes for swollen feet, there are several key factors to consider:

1. Size: Measure and fit shoes when feet are most swollen, which is later in the day. Start with proper length, which is a thumb’s width longer than the longest toe on the largest foot when standing. If your feet are different, go with the larger foot. Also, make sure you are wearing the socks you usually wear, since thicker or thinner socks alter the space in the shoe and make the fit tighter or looser.

2. Width and Depth: When fitting the shoe, again to the larger foot, make sure the foot isn’t bulging at the ball of the foot. If the ball on either side bulges out over the outsole, it is too narrow. The shoe should be comfortable and not feel like it is jammed into the shoe squeezing it.

3. Material: Look for breathable and flexible materials that can accommodate swelling.

4. Support: Adequate cushioning and arch support are crucial for comfort and foot health.

5. Ease of Use: Consider shoes that are easy to put on and take off, especially if swelling varies throughout the day.

Review of Top Extra Wide Shoes for Swollen Feet

When it comes to extra wide shoes for swollen feet, we've got several top picks from our collections that stand out for their comfort, style, and supportive features.

Women’s Comfort Shoes: These shoes are designed with a unique no-tie stretch system that makes them easy to slip on and off. The breathable material allows for maximum comfort, while the extra width accommodates swollen feet.

"The Women’s Comfort Shoes are a perfect blend of style and comfort, making them an excellent choice for those with swollen feet."

Men’s OrthoFit True Orthopedic Comfort: These shoes are designed with orthopedic comfort in mind. They offer extra width and depth, making them ideal for men with swollen feet. The cushioned insole provides excellent arch support, while the durable outsole ensures long-lasting wear.

Cloud Relief Women: These shoes are designed to provide maximum comfort for swollen feet. The extra wide design accommodates swelling, while the cushioned insole provides arch support. The lightweight construction makes these shoes easy to wear all day.

Women’s Orthopedic Arch Support Flip Flops: These flip flops are not just stylish, but also provide excellent arch support. The extra wide design accommodates swollen feet, making them a great choice for summer wear.

Comfort CloudSlides : These slides offer supreme comfort for both men and women. The extra wide design accommodates swollen feet, while the padded cushioned insole provides excellent arch support. They are Anti-slip, perfect for wearing around the house or outside. The durable outsole ensures long-lasting wear.

When comparing these shoes, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Some may prefer the ease of slip-on shoes, while others may prefer the secure fit of laced shoes. Material, support, and style are also important factors to consider.

Tips for Maintaining Comfort

Once you've found the perfect pair of extra wide shoes for your swollen feet, there are several tips to keep in mind to maintain comfort:

1. Proper Shoe Care: Regularly clean your shoes and replace worn out insoles to ensure longevity and continued comfort.

2. Elevation: Elevating your feet when possible can help reduce swelling.

3. Compression Socks: Wearing compression socks can help manage swelling and improve comfort.

Remember, comfort should be your top priority when choosing shoes for swollen feet. Your feet and health depend on it.

Conclusion: Recap of the Best Extra Wide Shoes for Swollen Feet

Choosing the right footwear for swollen feet is crucial not only for comfort but also for maintaining good foot health. Here's a quick recap of our top picks for extra wide shoes for swollen feet:

1. Women’s Comfort Shoes: Perfect blend of style and comfort with a unique no-tie stretch system.
2. Men’s OrthoFit True Orthopedic Comfort: Designed with orthopedic comfort in mind, offering extra width and depth.
3. Cloud Relief Women: Maximum comfort for swollen feet with a lightweight construction.
4. Women’s Orthopedic Arch Support Flip Flops: Stylish flip flops with excellent arch support.
5. Comfort CloudSlides: Supreme comfort for both men and women, Padded cushioned insoles.

"Remember, as you age your foot changes. Even without edema, most feet stretch out over the years, becoming longer and wider."

It's important to regularly check the size and fit of your shoes. If you have swelling, then that should be accommodated immediately. Most people require at least wide shoes as they age and many need extra wide if there are issues.

Don't just go by number, test the shoes for fit and comfort. Shoes should be comfortable. Your feet and health depend on it. For more information on foot health and the best orthopedic shoes for various conditions, check out our blog.

In conclusion, finding the best extra wide shoes for swollen feet can significantly improve your comfort and quality of life. At The OrthoFit Store, we're committed to providing you with the best footwear solutions for your needs. Explore our collections today and step into comfort!