Benefits and Importance of Arch Support in Shoes
Every step counts when you’re caring for the needs of others. As a healthcare professional, your feet bear the weight of a noble mission, but this active lifestyle also exposes them to potential issues—especially concerning your arches.
What is arch support exactly, and why is it important?
Arch support refers to the stability and reinforcement provided to the curved area between the ball and the heel of your foot. Once you have identified signs that you need arch support, by wearing arch-support shoes, you can experience form-fitted, sole-soothing comfort to help you stay active and reduce the risk of developing foot issues while you continue to support your patients.
Arch Anatomy: What Type of Foot Arch Do You Have?
Arches are the part of your feet that, in a very literal sense, put a spring in your step and help absorb shock as you walk. But this lovely lateral arch that curves alongside the bottom of your feet needs proper support, especially if you’re a healthcare worker always on the move.
When considering what is arch support important for, it’s good to know that there are three primary types of foot arches. Knowing which type best matches your feet can provide valuable insight when choosing the arch-supportive shoe that’s right for you:1
- Low arch – If your footprint shows complete contact between the sole of your foot and the ground, you likely have a low arch. This arch type provides minimal natural shock absorption, which can lead to increased arch tension and potential discomfort.
- Medium arch – A medium arch displays a moderate curvature, resulting in a balanced distribution of weight across the foot. This type of arch is considered neutral, allowing for efficient shock absorption, although good arch support is still important for active lifestyles.
- High arch – Characterized by a noticeable upward curve along the inside of the foot, a high arch causes less surface area to make contact with the ground. With reduced natural shock absorption, individuals with high arches may experience a tendency to walk in a way that increases pressure on specific areas of the foot.
You might be able to tell what kind of arch you have just at a glance. However, if you’re not sure, here’s an easy, two-step way to find out:2
- Dip one of your feet into some water.
- Step on a piece of cardboard, and examine the imprint.
If you find that much of your foot was able to press down flat against the cardboard, you likely have a low arch. Conversely, the more your footprint shows only the ball and heel of your foot, the higher your arch.
Of course, much like fingerprints, everyone's feet and arches are one-of-a-kind. These arches not only vary from person to person, but can also change over time due to factors such as weight fluctuations, aging, pregnancy, and medical conditions like arthritis. That’s why it is crucial to always consult with a podiatrist or doctor about your specific foot needs. A podiatrist can assess your unique foot structure and provide personalized recommendations for footwear.
By understanding and honoring your personal arch anatomy, you can take confident strides toward optimal foot health through a good arch support shoe that matches your unique foot structure.
Benefits of Arch Support
The intricate architecture of your feet can influence a lot of your musculoskeletal health. By incorporating proper arch support into your shoes, you unlock a multitude of benefits beyond just comfort.
What is arch support able to do for you? Here are a few key benefits:3
- Improved posture – Arch support promotes better posture by aligning your feet, which can have a positive ripple effect on your entire body. Improved posture not only reduces strain on your feet but also benefits your ankles, knees, hips, and back.
- Better shock absorption – Your feet endure considerable impact with each step. Arch support helps absorb shock and distribute the forces evenly. This helps to reduce stress on your joints and prevent overuse injuries.
- Alleviated discomfort – With proper arch support, you can alleviate common foot discomforts such as arch pain, plantar fasciitis, and heel spur. This is because arch support helps distribute pressure more evenly, reducing strain on the arch and relieving foot pain.
- Enhanced stability – By helping to align your feet, arch support can improve your overall stability and balance. This can reduce the risk of falls, especially if your sneakers also come with anti-slip outsoles (like our Men’s Classics and Women’s Classics do).
- Long-lasting comfort – Shoes with proper arch support are designed for long periods of wear without experiencing fatigue or discomfort—perfect for those long 12-hour shifts.
Ultimately, proper arch support isn’t just about comfort; it’s a powerful force for your overall well-being. After all, your feet serve as the foundation of your body's support system, so providing them with the right arch support is essential.
Now that you understand the answer to the question “What is arch support important for,” a new question arises: What kind of shoes can fill this need?
What are Arch Support Shoes? Exploring the “Arch Angels” of the Shoe World
Arch support shoes are specially designed footwear that provides key support and cushioning to the arches of your feet. These shoes are crafted in a way that helps maintain the natural alignment of the foot, offering stability and reducing strain in high-stress areas.
After all, what is arch support important for if not to help keep you on your feet all long day without foot pain or discomfort?
The primary component of arch support shoes is the inclusion of supportive materials in the midsole and insole areas. These components are strategically placed to provide targeted support to the arches, promoting proper foot alignment and reducing strain on the muscles and ligaments.
Aside from these general benefits, what else is arch support in shoes able to offer? Some useful additions include:
- Upgraded heel pad
- Molded arch support
- Cushioned insole
These traits serve to enhance comfort and reduce the risk of foot fatigue. Ultimately, arch support shoes are designed to distribute body weight evenly across the foot, absorb shock during walking or running, and provide optimal support to the arch area.
When looking for shoes that can give you the support you need, there are a couple of important things to keep in mind:
- Remember that your arch type will greatly affect the level of cushioning and support that your arches need. Higher arches tend to require more plush cushioning, while lower arches benefit from wider, evenly-spaced insoles. Medium arches benefit most from striking a nice balance between the two.
- Arch support is important, but so are other features! Especially for healthcare workers on the frontlines, you need shoes that aren’t scared of fluid, are easy to clean, easy to put on, and easy to look amazing in—even if you’re 11 hours into your shift.
In other words, finding the perfect pair of arch-support, especially shoes for healthcare workers, is about more than just the level of support they offer. For the modern, active healthcare worker, there needs to be a modern solution.
Take the First Step Toward Better Arch Support with Clove
At Clove, we understand the demands of your active lifestyle. That’s why we've made it our mission to support you every step of the way.
With our range of arch-support shoes, we invite you to experience the difference of Clove footwear. Whether that’s through our double-cushioned, extra comfy insoles, or our light and breathable sneakers, Clove offers you a world of unparalleled support and comfort.
When you step into Clove, you're not just investing in a pair of shoes; you're joining the growing community of healthcare professionals who have made us their go-to choice for comfortable, supportive footwear.
Sources:
- Healthfully. The Importance of Arch Support. https://healthfully.com/the-importance-of-arch-support-3952124.html
- Mayoclinic. How to determine your foot arch type. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/how-to-determine-foot-arch-type
- Abbott Foot Clinic. Benefits of Proper Arch Support. https://www.abbottfootclinic.ca/foot-care-blog/benefits-proper-arch-support/
