If you’re struggling with foot pain caused by deformities like bunions, hammer toes, or a high instep, you’re not alone. Many people experience discomfort even with the best shoes and orthotics. What if I told you that one of the easiest, most overlooked ways to ease that pain might be right in front of you—your shoe laces? Today, we’re diving into shoe lacing hacks for foot deformities that can make a significant difference in how your shoes feel and how much pain you experience.
Why Shoe Lacing Hacks for Foot Deformities Matter
Foot deformities such as bunions and hammer toes create pressure points that traditional shoe lacing often exacerbates. Shoes that are too tight or laced incorrectly can put unwanted pressure on sensitive areas, causing pain, irritation, or even worsening the problem. Unfortunately, many podiatrists don’t emphasize how changing your shoe lacing technique can help relieve this discomfort.
One of the first things to consider is your shoe choice. A shoe with a wide and high toe box—sometimes called a slipper fit shoe—can provide the space needed to avoid pressing on protruding areas of your foot. Shoes with a seamless fabric upper are ideal because they reduce irritation caused by stitching or seams rubbing against sensitive skin. Nike and other brands have popularized this style, and it’s a game-changer for people with foot deformities.
How to Lace Your Shoes to Avoid Painful Pressure Points
Now, onto the shoe lacing hacks for foot deformities. The traditional criss cross lacing method often crosses directly over the areas that cause pain, like bunions or hammer toes. The good news? You don’t have to stick with the standard method.
Here’s how to do it differently:
- Remove the laces completely and start fresh.
- Instead of criss crossing over painful areas, try running the laces straight up the sides of the shoe to avoid putting pressure on those spots. You can lace on one side or both, depending on where your pain points are.
- Make sure to still lace through the tongue loops so the tongue stays centered and comfortable.
- At the top of the shoe, crisscross the laces to provide ankle support and keep the shoe snug where you need it most.
- This method allows the shoe tongue to adjust and move comfortably, especially if you have a high instep.
If your painful areas are in the forefoot, try shoes where the laces start higher up on the shoe, giving you even more room and flexibility in the toe box.
Small Changes, Big Relief
The beauty of these shoe lacing hacks for foot deformities is that they’re simple but effective. By adjusting how you lace your shoes and choosing the right footwear, you can reduce pain, improve comfort, and protect sensitive areas of your feet throughout the day. These hacks can be especially helpful if you’re active, run regularly, or simply want to make your daily walks pain-free.
If you found these tips helpful, visit Archmaker.net for more expert foot health advice, shoe recommendations, and practical tricks to keep your feet happy and healthy.
