Sciatica is a common condition affecting the lower back and the sciatic nerve, one of the largest nerves in your body.
Your spine has a “S” shape, which means that all of its curves are mirrored by another curve on either side. The left and right sides of your lower spine each have three curves: cervical (neck), lumbar (lower back), and sacral. Your sciatic nerve runs from your low-back spine down through your buttocks and legs to just under your feet, so if you have sciatica, it's usually felt in those areas as well.
The pain may be most noticeable when you sit or lie down, especially if you're short-waisted or have tight hamstrings. Sciatica can range from mild to severe and can last for weeks or months at a time — though it often goes away on its own within two to four weeks. If there's something more serious going on with your spine, such as spinal stenosis or spondylolisthesis (bone displacement), symptoms might also be accompanied by numbness or weakness in other parts of your body — not just the leg(s) being affected by the sciatic nerve being pinched or irritated.
How We Choose
We evaluated the best shoes for sciatica based on comfort, support, and durability. We looked at a variety of factors including arch support, heel cushioning, toe room, and material quality. Some shoe brands are known for their exceptional comfort and support while others focus more on style and fashion. In addition to these considerations, we also took into account the wearer's gender (most people with sciatica suffer from lower back pain so we wanted to make sure our list included some women's options), as well as the type of activity they would be worn for (walking vs. running).
Brooks Ghost 14 Women's Neutral Running Shoe
The Brooks Ghost 14 is a great option for runners who want to experience the benefits of 3D Fit technology in a more traditional running shoe. The Ghost 14 has an elevated heel design that provides support and comfort while still being lightweight and flexible.
The midsole also offers cushioning underfoot, with BioMoGo DNA providing responsive cushioning where you need it most, and BioFoam+ delivering durable cushioning where you need it most too. The upper material is lightweight but still supportive, so you stay comfortable all day long without feeling like your wearing clunky shoes.
If you're looking for a versatile shoe that can be worn on any type of run, then the Brooks Ghost 14 should be at the top of your list. It's sleek design looks great with everything from jeans to shorts – making them perfect for any run style!
STQ Slip On Breathe Mesh Walking Shoes Women Fashion Sneakers Comfort Wedge Platform Loafers
STQ Slip On Breathe Mesh Walking Shoes Women Fashion Sneakers Comfort Wedge Platform Loafers
The STQ Soles are a great option for people who want a lightweight pair of shoes that offer the support and comfort of a running shoe without being too unstable on uneven surfaces. They have a thick EVA midsole which provides shock absorption and cushioning, while the STQ Slip-on design allows them to slip on and off easily.
The knit upper material is incredibly soft and feels like socks you're wearing instead of wearing actual socks. The stitch detail adds an extra touch of style to these versatile shoes, making them perfect for casual days out or everyday use at home or work. The sole also utilizes a rebound design which helps provide an efficient push-off when walking so your stride doesn't get bogged down by the ground.
They come in two different colorways - Navy/White and Black/Grey - which gives you plenty of options based on what matches with your outfit or occasion. Whether you're looking for something stylish to wear with jeans or something comfortable to take on long walks, these shoes will be sure to keep up with whatever your adventure brings!
New Balance Women's FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker
The New Balance FuelCore Nergize lifestyle shoe is a great choice for anyone looking for stylish and comfortable shoes. These sneakers have a sleek, easy-to-wear design that adds a touch of style to your outfit.
The contemporary shoe construction uses mesh and synthetic materials for a lightweight feel that helps keep you light on your feet. The upper design features a bootie-style construction that hugs the foot for a snug, supportive fit. Underfoot cushioning is provided by an NB Memory Sole Comfort Insert that offers plush feel with every step, making them ideal for everyday wear.
These shoes have a performance fit, so we recommend ordering 1/2 size bigger than your typical NB size. The rubber sole provides excellent traction on both hard surfaces and wet terrain, making them suitable for running errands or exploring the city alike.
Best Shoes For Sciatica FAQs
Sciatica is a term used to describe pain that runs down the leg from the lower back.
It's one of the most Frequently Asked Questions about shoes, but it can be tough to find the right answer. After all, roomy toe box there are so many different opinions out there! Where do you start? Our team has done the heavy lifting and found some of the best answers for this question on top Frequently Asked Questions about Best Shoes for Sciatica below.
Can Certain Shoes Help With Sciatica Pain?
Certain shoes can potentially help make your sciatica symptoms better by distributing the pressure from standing and walking more evenly across the muscles in your lower back.
This is because the sciatic nerve runs from your low back down to your legs, so if you have pain there then it will also follow into your legs, sciatica relief, causing shooting pains down one or both of your legs. If you can distribute the weight a little more evenly with the right shoe choice, then this may ease some of that pressure and provide some relief.
You should be careful not to wear anything too loose around the top of your foot though as this could cause problems elsewhere in your gait (the way you walk), running shoes, which might actually make things worse rather than better. So while there are potential benefits here, they are only likely to apply under specific circumstances; we'd recommend speaking to a professional first before changing up any footwear choices you're already making.
Can Shoes Affect Your Sciatic Nerve?
As your shoes cushion and support your feet, physical therapy, they also affect the way you stand and walk. If you wear poorly fitting or uncomfortable shoes, it can throw off your posture, which may cause or worsen back pain.
Plus, if your shoes don't have adequate arch support, then this could irritate your sciatic nerve as it passes under the foot. So when choosing new athletic shoes or even everyday sneakers for work and play, make sure to get ones that fit properly and feel good on your feet. Then seek out a local shoe store for additional inserts if necessary.
What Should You Wear For Sciatica Pain, sciatica nerve pain?
Most people with sciatica pain will experience discomfort or pain when lying or sitting for long periods of time. If you have this type of sciatica, it's important to wear clothing that provides support and stays cool.
Focus on layers. Cotton is a good material for shirts and pants, but if the weather is colder, choose polyester blends to get the best combination of warmth and breathability.
You'll also want clothes that provide support without irritating your tender area. Try wearing an elastic wrap brace instead of a stiff bandage around your waist or upper leg if you're feeling especially uncomfortable. Make sure it feels snug, pain relief, relieve sciatica pain relieve pain, slip on shoes but not too tight around your painful area before securing it in place with the Velcro closure.
Do Orthopedic Shoes Help Sciatica and sciatic pain?
Sciatica is pain caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve, which starts in your lower back and runs down one leg. This type of pain is often described as a sharp or burning sensation that can range from mild to severe.
Orthopedic shoes may help relieve sciatic nerve pain, especially if you have heel bone osteoarthritis. This condition causes bone spurs to develop on the heel bone and can lead to inflammation and irritation of the sciatic nerve. By spreading out pressure on the heel, orthopedic shoes may reduce symptoms like numbness and tingling.
As an added bonus, orthopedic shoes are designed with shock-absorbing soles that might improve your balance while walking. Not only will this keep you upright when standing still, but it could also help you avoid falls that can cause further injury to your low back or knees.
What Should Be Avoided By A Patient With Sciatica?
Excessive physical activity is one of the main causes of sciatica pain. It is important to protect your back, especially if you are recovering from this condition. Avoid any physical effort that may trigger or worsen the symptoms, knee pain, nerve pain, such as lifting heavy objects, climbing stairs, and bending over for long periods of time. You should also avoid sitting in uncomfortable positions for a long time and sleeping on your stomach.
Some medications used to treat sciatica can cause side effects that could compromise your health and well-being. For example: Some painkillers can cause stomach bleeding; others can lower blood pressure or affect heart rhythm; yet others can lead to drowsiness or confusion. Be sure to inform your doctor about all the medications (prescription and OTC) you are taking so he/she can monitor potential drug interactions closely during treatment.
Conclusion
Choosing the best shoes for sciatica can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it's difficult to know where to start or which type of shoe will work best for your needs. But with some research and knowledge about what to look for in a good pair of shoes for sciatica, you'll be able to find something that fits both your budget and your foot shape perfectly.
Brooks Ghost 14 Women's Neutral Running Shoe
STQ Slip On Breathe Mesh Walking Shoes Women Fashion Sneakers Comfort Wedge Platform Loafers
