{"id":554,"date":"2026-10-05T11:44:24","date_gmt":"2026-10-05T10:44:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/?page_id=554"},"modified":"2026-10-21T11:28:13","modified_gmt":"2026-10-21T10:28:13","slug":"footwear","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/footwear\/","title":{"rendered":"Footwear"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-fsb-flexible-spacer fsb-flexible-spacer\"><div class=\"fsb-flexible-spacer__device fsb-flexible-spacer__device--lg\" style=\"margin-bottom:-25px\"><\/div><div class=\"fsb-flexible-spacer__device fsb-flexible-spacer__device--md\" style=\"height:25px\"><\/div><div class=\"fsb-flexible-spacer__device fsb-flexible-spacer__device--sm\" style=\"height:15px\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-fb395cd6\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-edd59d84\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-6ab22d86\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-6ab22d86\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sub><sup><strong>NHS LOTHIAN | PODIATRY SERVICE<\/strong><\/sup><\/sub><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-1d7549ec gb-headline-text\">Footwear<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-0844aad5 gb-headline-text\">The shoes you wear every day have a direct impact on your foot health.<br><br>Good footwear reduces pressure, prevents pain and helps manage many common foot conditions.<\/h2>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-85d5cbeb\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-85d5cbeb\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-image.kb-image554_43ae9f-a2:not(.kb-specificity-added):not(.kb-extra-specificity-added){margin-top:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;}.kb-image554_43ae9f-a2:not(.kb-image-is-ratio-size) .kb-img, .kb-image554_43ae9f-a2.kb-image-is-ratio-size{padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.kb-image554_43ae9f-a2 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;border-top-left-radius:20px;border-top-right-radius:20px;border-bottom-right-radius:20px;border-bottom-left-radius:20px;}.kb-image554_43ae9f-a2 img.kb-img, .kb-image554_43ae9f-a2 .kb-img img{border-top-left-radius:20px;border-top-right-radius:20px;border-bottom-right-radius:20px;border-bottom-left-radius:20px;object-position:50% 0%;}<\/style>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image554_43ae9f-a2 size-full kb-image-is-ratio-size\"><div class=\"kb-is-ratio-image kb-image-ratio-square\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1536\" src=\"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/black-trainers.jpg\" alt=\"black trainers\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-1148\" srcset=\"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/black-trainers.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/black-trainers-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/black-trainers-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/black-trainers-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/black-trainers-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/black-trainers-1140x1140.jpg 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1536px) 100vw, 1536px\" \/><\/div><\/figure>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 id=\"when-to-contact-your-podiatry-department\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Footwear<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-1 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\">The shoes you wear every day have a direct impact on your foot health. Good footwear reduces pressure, prevents pain and helps manage many common foot conditions. Most foot problems seen by podiatrists are made worse, or caused, by poorly fitting shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-554_328944-9a .kt-block-spacer{height:40px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-554_328944-9a .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:#eee;width:80%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-554_328944-9a\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-76403128 alignfull\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-e96f198e gb-headline-text\">How to check your footwear fits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-a2999119 gb-headline-text\">A simple check takes less than a minute and can make a real difference to your foot health.<\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-image.kb-image554_e7bbd9-be:not(.kb-specificity-added):not(.kb-extra-specificity-added){margin-top:0px;}.kb-image554_e7bbd9-be .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image554_e7bbd9-be alignfull size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1465\" height=\"973\" src=\"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/Footwear-large.png\" alt=\"Footwear diagram\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-1092\" srcset=\"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/Footwear-large.png 1465w, https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/Footwear-large-300x199.png 300w, https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/Footwear-large-1024x680.png 1024w, https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/Footwear-large-768x510.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1465px) 100vw, 1465px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignfull zoomer is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-63326995 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9dcc4a36 gb-headline-text\"><strong>Length<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-2 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\">There should be a full thumb&#8217;s width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. If your toes are touching the end, the shoe is too short.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-2f5f73ea gb-headline-text\"><strong>Width<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-3 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\">The widest part of the shoe should match the widest part of your foot. Your toes should not be squeezed together or spilling over the sides.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-c934ad15 gb-headline-text\"><strong>Depth<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-4 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\">There should be enough room across the top of the foot. The shoe should not press down on your toenails.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignfull zoomer is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-63326995 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-d95c7f2b gb-headline-text\"><strong>Fastening<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-5 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\">Shoes with laces, straps or buckles hold the foot more securely than slip-on styles and reduce the risk of your foot sliding forward.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-326a257d gb-headline-text\"><strong>Sole<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-6 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\">A semi-rigid sole with some flexibility provides the best support for most people. Avoid soles that are very thin, very hard or completely flat.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-425aa92b gb-headline-text\"><strong>Heel Height<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-7 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500\">A heel between 1cm and 4cm is ideal for most people. Very flat shoes and very high heels both increase strain on the foot and lower leg.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 id=\"consultation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Footwear tips for common situations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:6%\"><style>.kt-svg-icons554_6fc3eb-2b .kt-svg-item-0 .kb-svg-icon-wrap{color:var(--global-palette4, #2D3748);font-size:50px;}.wp-block-kadence-icon.kt-svg-icons554_6fc3eb-2b{justify-content:center;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-icon.kt-svg-icons554_6fc3eb-2b{justify-content:flex-start;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-icon kt-svg-icons kt-svg-icons554_6fc3eb-2b alignnone\"><style>.kt-svg-item-554_7854ee-bf .kb-svg-icon-wrap, .kt-svg-style-stacked.kt-svg-item-554_7854ee-bf .kb-svg-icon-wrap{font-size:45px;background:#dce8f3;border-width:0px;border-radius:20%;padding-top:10px;padding-right:10px;padding-bottom:10px;padding-left:10px;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kt-svg-item-554_7854ee-bf .kb-svg-icon-wrap, .kt-svg-style-stacked.kt-svg-item-554_7854ee-bf .kb-svg-icon-wrap{font-size:18px;padding-top:8px;padding-right:8px;padding-bottom:8px;padding-left:8px;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-single-icon kt-svg-style-stacked kt-svg-icon-wrap kt-svg-item-554_7854ee-bf\"><span class=\"kb-svg-icon-wrap kb-svg-icon-fas_arrow-circle-right\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"  fill=\"currentColor\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"  aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M256 8c137 0 248 111 248 248S393 504 256 504 8 393 8 256 119 8 256 8zm-28.9 143.6l75.5 72.4H120c-13.3 0-24 10.7-24 24v16c0 13.3 10.7 24 24 24h182.6l-75.5 72.4c-9.7 9.3-9.9 24.8-.4 34.3l11 10.9c9.4 9.4 24.6 9.4 33.9 0L404.3 273c9.4-9.4 9.4-24.6 0-33.9L271.6 106.3c-9.4-9.4-24.6-9.4-33.9 0l-11 10.9c-9.5 9.6-9.3 25.1.4 34.4z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:94%\">\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-fbb06a6f gb-headline-text\">At home<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-4e0c3d37 gb-headline-text\">Many foot injuries happen indoors. Avoid walking barefoot, especially on hard floors. Supportive slippers with a firm sole are recommended.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:6%\"><style>.kt-svg-icons554_0f7d5d-d8 .kt-svg-item-0 .kb-svg-icon-wrap{color:var(--global-palette4, #2D3748);font-size:50px;}.wp-block-kadence-icon.kt-svg-icons554_0f7d5d-d8{justify-content:center;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-icon.kt-svg-icons554_0f7d5d-d8{justify-content:flex-start;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-icon kt-svg-icons kt-svg-icons554_0f7d5d-d8 alignnone\"><style>.kt-svg-item-554_7952ab-e3 .kb-svg-icon-wrap, .kt-svg-style-stacked.kt-svg-item-554_7952ab-e3 .kb-svg-icon-wrap{font-size:45px;background:#dadbe8;border-width:0px;border-radius:20%;padding-top:10px;padding-right:10px;padding-bottom:10px;padding-left:10px;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kt-svg-item-554_7952ab-e3 .kb-svg-icon-wrap, .kt-svg-style-stacked.kt-svg-item-554_7952ab-e3 .kb-svg-icon-wrap{font-size:18px;padding-top:8px;padding-right:8px;padding-bottom:8px;padding-left:8px;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-single-icon kt-svg-style-stacked kt-svg-icon-wrap kt-svg-item-554_7952ab-e3\"><span class=\"kb-svg-icon-wrap kb-svg-icon-fas_arrow-circle-right\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"  fill=\"currentColor\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"  aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M256 8c137 0 248 111 248 248S393 504 256 504 8 393 8 256 119 8 256 8zm-28.9 143.6l75.5 72.4H120c-13.3 0-24 10.7-24 24v16c0 13.3 10.7 24 24 24h182.6l-75.5 72.4c-9.7 9.3-9.9 24.8-.4 34.3l11 10.9c9.4 9.4 24.6 9.4 33.9 0L404.3 273c9.4-9.4 9.4-24.6 0-33.9L271.6 106.3c-9.4-9.4-24.6-9.4-33.9 0l-11 10.9c-9.5 9.6-9.3 25.1.4 34.4z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:94%\">\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-2c8d3d78 gb-headline-text\">At work<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-edb15c1d gb-headline-text\">If your job involves standing for long periods, cushioned, supportive footwear makes a significant difference. Safety footwear should still meet the fitting guidelines above.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:6%\"><style>.kt-svg-icons554_b3e4ae-f0 .kt-svg-item-0 .kb-svg-icon-wrap{color:var(--global-palette4, #2D3748);font-size:50px;}.wp-block-kadence-icon.kt-svg-icons554_b3e4ae-f0{justify-content:center;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-icon.kt-svg-icons554_b3e4ae-f0{justify-content:flex-start;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-icon kt-svg-icons kt-svg-icons554_b3e4ae-f0 alignnone\"><style>.kt-svg-item-554_31798d-ff .kb-svg-icon-wrap, .kt-svg-style-stacked.kt-svg-item-554_31798d-ff .kb-svg-icon-wrap{font-size:45px;background:#dce8f3;border-width:0px;border-radius:20%;padding-top:10px;padding-right:10px;padding-bottom:10px;padding-left:10px;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kt-svg-item-554_31798d-ff .kb-svg-icon-wrap, .kt-svg-style-stacked.kt-svg-item-554_31798d-ff .kb-svg-icon-wrap{font-size:18px;padding-top:8px;padding-right:8px;padding-bottom:8px;padding-left:8px;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-single-icon kt-svg-style-stacked kt-svg-icon-wrap kt-svg-item-554_31798d-ff\"><span class=\"kb-svg-icon-wrap kb-svg-icon-fas_arrow-circle-right\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"  fill=\"currentColor\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"  aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M256 8c137 0 248 111 248 248S393 504 256 504 8 393 8 256 119 8 256 8zm-28.9 143.6l75.5 72.4H120c-13.3 0-24 10.7-24 24v16c0 13.3 10.7 24 24 24h182.6l-75.5 72.4c-9.7 9.3-9.9 24.8-.4 34.3l11 10.9c9.4 9.4 24.6 9.4 33.9 0L404.3 273c9.4-9.4 9.4-24.6 0-33.9L271.6 106.3c-9.4-9.4-24.6-9.4-33.9 0l-11 10.9c-9.5 9.6-9.3 25.1.4 34.4z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:94%\">\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-bb239c7b gb-headline-text\">For exercise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-16164d59 gb-headline-text\">Activity-specific footwear is important. Running shoes, walking shoes and cross-trainers are designed differently. Replace sports footwear regularly \u2014 most shoes lose significant cushioning after 300\u2013500 miles of use.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:6%\"><style>.kt-svg-icons554_3969be-14 .kt-svg-item-0 .kb-svg-icon-wrap{color:var(--global-palette4, #2D3748);font-size:50px;}.wp-block-kadence-icon.kt-svg-icons554_3969be-14{justify-content:center;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-icon.kt-svg-icons554_3969be-14{justify-content:flex-start;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-icon kt-svg-icons kt-svg-icons554_3969be-14 alignnone\"><style>.kt-svg-item-554_035906-8f .kb-svg-icon-wrap, .kt-svg-style-stacked.kt-svg-item-554_035906-8f .kb-svg-icon-wrap{font-size:45px;background:#dadbe8;border-width:0px;border-radius:20%;padding-top:10px;padding-right:10px;padding-bottom:10px;padding-left:10px;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kt-svg-item-554_035906-8f .kb-svg-icon-wrap, .kt-svg-style-stacked.kt-svg-item-554_035906-8f .kb-svg-icon-wrap{font-size:18px;padding-top:8px;padding-right:8px;padding-bottom:8px;padding-left:8px;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-single-icon kt-svg-style-stacked kt-svg-icon-wrap kt-svg-item-554_035906-8f\"><span class=\"kb-svg-icon-wrap kb-svg-icon-fas_arrow-circle-right\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"  fill=\"currentColor\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"  aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M256 8c137 0 248 111 248 248S393 504 256 504 8 393 8 256 119 8 256 8zm-28.9 143.6l75.5 72.4H120c-13.3 0-24 10.7-24 24v16c0 13.3 10.7 24 24 24h182.6l-75.5 72.4c-9.7 9.3-9.9 24.8-.4 34.3l11 10.9c9.4 9.4 24.6 9.4 33.9 0L404.3 273c9.4-9.4 9.4-24.6 0-33.9L271.6 106.3c-9.4-9.4-24.6-9.4-33.9 0l-11 10.9c-9.5 9.6-9.3 25.1.4 34.4z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:94%\">\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-d912d09f gb-headline-text\">As you age<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-d7864aee gb-headline-text\">Feet change shape over time. Have your feet measured regularly, as the size and width you wore in your 30s may no longer be accurate. Wider-fitting styles and shoes with fastenings become increasingly important.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-554_366c54-8a .kt-block-spacer{height:6px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-554_366c54-8a .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:#eee;width:80%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-554_366c54-8a\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-causes-achilies-tendon-pain\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Orthotics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-8 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:400\">Orthotics are insoles placed inside shoes to support the foot, redistribute pressure and improve function. They can help manage pain and make walking more comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-554_b11c8c-5c .kt-block-spacer{height:6px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-554_b11c8c-5c .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:#eee;width:80%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-554_b11c8c-5c\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-bf670e87\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-5fafe72b\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-5fafe72b\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-9 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500;letter-spacing:0px\"><strong>Not everyone needs orthotics<\/strong><br>They are not suitable for all conditions and should only be recommended following an assessment by a podiatrist. If you think you may benefit, speak to a podiatrist before purchasing insoles &#8211; the right footwear alone may be sufficient:<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-96296f5a\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-96296f5a\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-78f71a74 gb-headline-text\"><strong>Available Now<\/strong><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-10 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500;letter-spacing:0px\"><strong>Over-the-counter insoles<\/strong><br>Available from pharmacies and sports shops. These provide general cushioning and support and may help with mild symptoms.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-74ed5a12\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-74ed5a12\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-dd9b247a gb-headline-text\"><strong>Self-refer<\/strong><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-11 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500;letter-spacing:0px\"><strong>Custom orthotics<\/strong><br>Made specifically for your foot and are prescribed by a podiatrist following an assessment. If you think you may benefit from custom orthotics, you can self-refer to NHS Podiatry using the form at the foot of this page.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-97ca08e5\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-97ca08e5\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-5b5c2deb gb-headline-text\"><strong>Referral needed<\/strong><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-12 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:500;letter-spacing:0px\"><strong>Specialist footwear<\/strong><br>In some cases, shoes designed or adapted for specific clinical needs may be recommended. This is provided through the orthotics department and requires a referral. Your podiatrist can advise if this is appropriate for you.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-554_f0cf66-a6 .kt-block-spacer{height:10px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-554_f0cf66-a6 .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:#eee;width:80%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-554_f0cf66-a6\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3c4e1799\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h2 id=\"what-causes-achilies-tendon-pain\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Getting further help<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-regular-font-size wp-elements-13 wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:400\">If you are experiencing foot pain related to your footwear, or are unsure which footwear is right for your condition, a podiatrist can advise you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>You can self-refer to NHS Lothian Podiatry using our self-referral form, or call us on 0131 536 1627<\/strong><br><strong>Monday\u2013Thursday 8:30am\u20134pm, Friday 8am\u20133:30pm<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-28d34470 fsb-style-show-front alignfull\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-1c1ce466\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-ac9614f0\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-ac9614f0\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-ed740c28 gb-headline-text\">Self-Referral Form<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-8e320c9e gb-headline-text\">Please complete a&nbsp;self referral form&nbsp;to apply to the podiatry service for treatment.<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-3e41869c wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-icon__download\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/Podiatry-Community-Service-Self-Referral-Form.pdf\"><span class=\"wp-block-button__link-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg viewBox='0 0 16 17' xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'><path d='M14,8.3 L13,7.2 L9,11.2 L9,0 L7.5,0 L7.5,11.3 L3,7.2 L2,8.3 L8.2,14.1 L14,8.3 L14,8.3 Z M14.5,12 L14.5,15.5 L1.5,15.5 L1.5,12 L0,12 L0,17 L16,17 L16,12 L14.5,12 Z'><\/path><\/svg><\/span>Self-Referral Form<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-ee75a50e gb-headline-text\">If you are using a smartphone please download the free Adobe Acrobat Reader app to complete the form electronically \u2013&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"http:\/\/get.adobe.com\/reader\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\">get.adobe.com\/reader<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-d69ec538 gb-headline-text\">GPs and other healthcare professionals can access referral guidance on our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/apps.nhslothian.scot\/refhelp\/guidelines\/podiatry\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ref Help pages<\/a><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<style data-wp-block-html=\"css\">\n.tablecontentsnopadding .kb-table-of-content-wrap {\npadding: 0px !important;\n}\n#content2 .tablecontentsnopadding ul.kb-table-of-content-list {\nmargin: 10px 0px 10px 0px !important;\n}\n#content2 .tablecontentsnopadding ul.kb-table-of-content-list li {\nline-height: 23px !important;\n}\n<\/style>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-getwid-section alignfull fullstretch has-custom-css wp-custom-css-55509eaa\" style=\"margin-bottom:\"><div class=\"wp-block-getwid-section__wrapper getwid-padding-left-large getwid-padding-right-large getwid-padding-tablet-top-medium getwid-padding-tablet-bottom-large getwid-padding-tablet-left-medium getwid-padding-tablet-right-medium getwid-padding-mobile-top-medium getwid-padding-mobile-bottom-normal getwid-padding-mobile-left-medium getwid-padding-mobile-right-medium getwid-margin-left-none getwid-margin-right-none\" style=\"min-height:400px;padding-top:10px;padding-bottom:50px\"><div class=\"wp-block-getwid-section__inner-wrapper\"><div class=\"wp-block-getwid-section__background-holder\"><div class=\"wp-block-getwid-section__background\"><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-getwid-section__foreground\" style=\"opacity:1;background-color:#3e454c\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-getwid-section__content\"><div class=\"wp-block-getwid-section__inner-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\" style=\"padding-bottom:0px\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"footytext has-standard-white-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:900\"><strong>CONTACT INFORMATION<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-14 wp-block-paragraph\">NHS Lothian Podiatry<br>Mon-Thu: 8:30am-4pm<br>Fri: 8am-3:30pm<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-15 wp-block-paragraph\">Telephone: (0131) 536 1627<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-left is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-a882c58c wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-icon__download\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/165\/2026\/10\/Podiatry-Community-Service-Self-Referral-Form.pdf\"><span class=\"wp-block-button__link-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg viewBox='0 0 16 17' xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'><path d='M14,8.3 L13,7.2 L9,11.2 L9,0 L7.5,0 L7.5,11.3 L3,7.2 L2,8.3 L8.2,14.1 L14,8.3 L14,8.3 Z M14.5,12 L14.5,15.5 L1.5,15.5 L1.5,12 L0,12 L0,17 L16,17 L16,12 L14.5,12 Z'><\/path><\/svg><\/span>Self-Referral Form<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"footytext has-standard-white-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:900\"><strong>ABOUT US<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-16 wp-block-paragraph\">Podiatrists are allied healthcare professionals trained to help prevent, diagnose, and treat problems affecting your feet and lower limbs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-standard-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-17 wp-block-paragraph\">Podiatry&#8217;s primary aim is to improve the mobility, independence, and quality of life for their patients.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"footytext has-standard-white-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:900\"><strong>SHARE THIS PAGE<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"simplesocialbuttons simplesocial-simple-round simplesocialbuttons_inline simplesocialbuttons-align-left simplesocialbuttons-inline-no-animation\">\n<button class=\"simplesocial-fb-share\"  rel=\"nofollow\"  target=\"_blank\"  data-ssb-network=\"fbshare\"  data-ssb-post-id=\"554\"  aria-label=\"Facebook Share\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.nhslothian.scot%2Fpodiatrynew%2Ffootwear%2F\" data-ssb-share-action=\"popup\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"simplesocialtxt\">Facebook <\/span> <\/button>\n<button class=\"simplesocial-twt-share\"  rel=\"nofollow\"  target=\"_blank\"  data-ssb-network=\"twitter\"  data-ssb-post-id=\"554\"  aria-label=\"Twitter\/X Share\" data-href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=Footwear&#038;url=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.nhslothian.scot%2Fpodiatrynew%2Ffootwear%2F\" data-ssb-share-action=\"popup\"><span class=\"simplesocialtxt\">Twitter\/X<\/span> <\/button>\n<button class=\"simplesocial-whatsapp-share\"  rel=\"nofollow\"  target=\"_blank\"  data-ssb-network=\"whatsapp\"  data-ssb-post-id=\"554\"  aria-label=\"WhatsApp Share\" data-href=\"https:\/\/api.whatsapp.com\/send?text=https%3A%2F%2Fservices.nhslothian.scot%2Fpodiatrynew%2Ffootwear%2F\" data-ssb-share-action=\"blank\"><span 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class=\"simplesocialtxt\">Pinterest<\/span><\/button>\n<button class=\"simplesocial-email-share\" aria-label=\"Share through Email\"  rel=\"nofollow\"  target=\"_blank\"  data-ssb-network=\"email\"  data-ssb-post-id=\"554\"  data-href=\"mailto:?subject=Footwear&body=https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/footwear\/\" data-ssb-share-action=\"mailto\"><span class=\"simplesocialtxt\">Email<\/span><\/button>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"footytext has-standard-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-18 wp-block-paragraph\"><sub><strong>\u00a9 NHS LOTHIAN | PODIATRY SERVICE.<\/strong><\/sub><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\" style=\"padding-top:0px;padding-bottom:0px\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Footwear The shoes you wear every day have a direct impact on your foot health. Good footwear reduces pressure, prevents pain and helps manage many common foot conditions. Most foot problems seen by podiatrists are made worse, or caused, by poorly fitting shoes. How to check your footwear fits A simple check takes less than<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":22,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-templates\/nogreenfullwidth.php","meta":{"_gspb_post_css":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[],"class_list":["post-554","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"rttpg_featured_image_url":null,"rttpg_author":{"display_name":"st3vi3b0y","author_link":"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/author\/st3vi3b0y\/"},"rttpg_comment":0,"rttpg_category":false,"rttpg_excerpt":"Footwear The shoes you wear every day have a direct impact on your foot health. Good footwear reduces pressure, prevents pain and helps manage many common foot conditions. Most foot problems seen by podiatrists are made worse, or caused, by poorly fitting shoes. How to check your footwear fits A simple check takes less than","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/554","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=554"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/554\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1394,"href":"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/554\/revisions\/1394"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=554"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/services.nhslothian.scot\/podiatrynew\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=554"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}