Wear supportive footwear for Scoliosis

Wearing supportive footwear is essential for maintaining proper posture and preventing undue strain on the spine, which can influence scoliosis. The alignment of the feet and how they absorb impact directly affects the body's overall structure. Inappropriate footwear, such as high heels or flat shoes with little arch support, can misalign the pelvis and spine, causing additional stress that may worsen scoliosis.

Here’s how supportive footwear helps and what to look for:

• Arch Support: Proper arch support stabilizes the feet and ensures even weight distribution across the body. Shoes with good arch support help maintain alignment between the feet, legs, hips, and spine, reducing strain on the lower back, which is crucial for scoliosis management.
• Cushioned Insoles: Look for shoes with cushioned soles to absorb shock during walking or standing. This reduces the impact on the spine, especially in individuals with scoliosis, whose curvature might already increase the pressure on certain areas of the spine.
• Heel Height: Choose shoes with a slight heel, as completely flat shoes may lack support, leading to poor posture. However, avoid high heels, which tilt the pelvis forward and can throw the spine out of alignment.
• Custom Orthotics: If necessary, consider custom orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist. These are designed specifically for your feet and can help correct posture and alignment issues that contribute to back pain and scoliosis symptoms.
• Sturdy, Non-slip Soles: A good pair of shoes should provide stability with a firm grip on the ground. This reduces the risk of slips and falls, which can strain or injure the back, potentially aggravating scoliosis.

Investing in high-quality, supportive footwear can greatly contribute to maintaining proper spinal alignment, especially for individuals with scoliosis, who are more vulnerable to the effects of poor posture.