According to Medical Xpress, researchers Kade Paterson and Rana Hinman discuss two clinical trials published in Annals of Internal Medicine.
The most recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine (1) followed 120 people with hip osteoarthritis.
Participants wore either flat, flexible shoes or stable, supportive shoes for six months.
The researchers found no meaningful difference in pain reduction between the two groups.
Also read: How your body is affected if you get most of your calories from beverages
However, a 2021 study published in Annals of Internal Medicine (2) involving 164 people with knee osteoarthritis showed different results.
In that trial, participants who wore stable, supportive shoes experienced greater pain relief while walking than those wearing flat footwear.
Together, the findings indicate that footwear recommendations may need to be tailored to the specific joint involved.
How footwear influences joint load
According to the researchers, shoes change how forces move through the legs during walking.
Also read: Major review finds consistent link between pecans and improved cholesterol
Biomechanical studies show that raised heels shift body weight forward and increase stress on the knee joint.
Even moderate heel heights have been linked to higher knee loading compared with walking barefoot.
Stiff soles and arch support can also affect how forces are distributed. More support does not automatically mean less joint stress, which may explain why footwear advice remains debated.
What should patients consider?
Current evidence suggests supportive shoes may benefit people with knee osteoarthritis.
Also read: In these situations, it may be relevant to increase your protein intake
For hip osteoarthritis, no clear advantage has been identified. Both studies noted more frequent foot discomfort with flat, flexible shoes.
Footwear is only one part of treatment. Exercise, weight management, and pain medication remain important components of care.
Sources: Medical Xpress, Annals of Internal Medicine (1), and Annals of Internal Medicine (2).
Also read: Study of 125,000 finds limited cancer-prevention benefit from aspirin
Also read: Women face greater risk of dying after heart attack, study finds