Best Shoes for Knee Pain

Knee Pain or discomfort in the knees can be the result of a traumatic injury or conditions like arthritis and improper ankle alignment. But most of the time it is the result of an overuse injury from repetitive activities like jogging, jumping, and even climbing stairs. Our knees, the largest joint in our body, buffer and protect our body from the trauma of ground reaction forces. In other words, they absorb shock and take a beating.

1. Reduce your level of exercise or activity for a period of time if you suffer from knee pain. Knees must have time to heal.

2. Select good shoes for knee pain to alleviate discomfort. Shoes should include high levels of ABZORB® cushioning and a more pronounced arch support system. ABZORB® technology, New Balance’s patented cushioning system, disperses shock and takes the stress off knees and joints. A more structured arch support system supports your midfoot for healthy foot alignment. If you’re looking for walking, cross-training, or running shoes for knee pain, New Balance offers many options. For years the 993 signature shoe series was known throughout the industry as the “knee shoe.” Today, the 993 carries on this legacy along with many more New Balance styles.

3. Proper insoles for knee pain can offer relief. New Balance insoles with high levels of ABZORB® cushioning protect your joints from the shock of ground reaction forces.

4. Custom orthoses are recommended when over-the-counter solutions don’t provide the necessary relief. Our ABC certified pedorthists, available at our St. Louis, Branson, and Washington store locations, can fill your physician’s prescription for these orthotics. They will also support your health care professional’s recovery plan.

5. Always wear shoes and avoid walking barefoot, even around the house. Appropriate footwear protects feet and knees against injury. For supportive, easy-to-wear comfort for leisure, try our Orthaheel sandals, approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association. These clinically proven sandals are designed by doctors and are built with a posted, cushioned arch.

6. Exercise or work on softer surfaces.

7. Maintain a healthy weight to take stress off the knees.

8. Always consult your medical professional when problems persist.

If your knee pain is primarily the result of misaligned ankles, refer to the topics Pronation and Supination. How can you tell if your ankles are misaligned? Bow-legged stances and knock-kneed stances are often symptoms. For bow-legged stances, see Supination and follow the recommendations. For knock-kneed stances, see Pronation and follow the recommendations.