From the Guidelines
For individuals with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), shoes with firmness, comfortable fit, appropriate length and width, rounded toe, plenty of room for the toes, flexibility, flat heel, heel support, laces or straps, and flat or absent seams are recommended. When selecting shoes, it is essential to consider features that prevent excessive movement or slipping of the foot inside the shoe, as this can exacerbate pain and discomfort 1. The upper covering should be leather or fabric mesh to allow air to circulate, rather than plastic or synthetic, which can help reduce sweating and friction 1.
Some key features to look for in shoes for CRPS patients include:
- Firmness and comfortable fit to provide support and stability
- Appropriate length and width to prevent pressure points
- Rounded toe and plenty of room for the toes to reduce friction and pressure
- Flexibility and flat heel to allow for a natural range of motion
- Heel support and laces or straps to secure the foot in place
- Flat or absent seams to minimize irritation and pressure points
It is also important to consider the use of socks that improve ventilation, such as silver-fibred cotton socks or bamboo socks, which can help reduce sweating and friction 1. Additionally, custom orthotic inserts may provide additional support and pain relief by redistributing pressure away from sensitive areas.
When trying shoes, it is crucial to wear them briefly at first to ensure they don't exacerbate symptoms, as CRPS can cause hypersensitivity to touch and pressure. Shoes should be broken in gradually, and having multiple pairs to rotate can help if swelling fluctuates throughout the day. The right footwear can help reduce mechanical stress on affected limbs, minimizing nerve irritation, and providing stability that may help manage the pain and allodynia characteristic of CRPS.
From the Research
Recommended Shoes for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
There is no specific information available in the provided studies regarding the recommended shoes for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) [ 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 ].
Treatment Options for CRPS
The treatment options for CRPS include:
- Physical therapy [ 2, 3, 5, 6 ]
- Pharmacotherapy, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), short-course steroids, bisphosphonates, gabapentin, and ketamine [ 3 ]
- Interventional techniques, such as sympathetic blocks and spinal cord stimulation [ 3, 4, 5 ]
- Psychological support and pain-relieving measures [ 2, 3, 5, 6 ]
Key Considerations for CRPS Management
Key considerations for CRPS management include: