Comfort Shoe Specialists
11693 Manchester Rd
St. Louis, MO 63131
314-822-3300
It used to be that when a doctor prescribed orthopedic footwear, a patient's initial response would be: "I'm not going to wear those ugly shoes!" Most often, when the pain persisted, a patient would reluctantly seek out a hard-to-find specialty shoe retailer, look through the slim selection, and settle on a pair of shoes that were comfortable, but not very stylish.
Today, things are different. Now, when a patient seeks relief from chronic pain,either for medical reasons or from years of cramming the foot into unnatural toe shapes and heel heights, they are surprised by the wide array of styles, sizes and colors to suit almost every taste. Manufacturers have responded to the growing need for shoes that can be fitted with personal orthoses by providing fashionable casual and dress styles. Now patients respond, "These look much better than I thought they would, and they feel wonderful!"
Specialty shoe stores are usually owned and staffed by certified pedorthists who work hand-in-hand with doctors to ensure that patients can walk as pain-free as possible. The service and attention they provide are reminiscent of the shoe stores of yesterday. Someone actually takes the time to properly fit you, and explain that the construction of the shoe consists of a stiffer sole to provide extra support and a larger toe box that allows sufficient room, which may account for heel slippage, a common unfamiliar sensation with properly fitted shoes.
Men and women, young and old, are discovering freedom from pain without sacrificing good looks and style. As a bonus, they receive personal attention and service as it used to be. Orthopedic shoes aren't what they used to be, but that's a good sign.
Edith James, C. Ped., is President of Comfort Shoe Specialists, Inc.