10 Best Shoes After Foot Surgery – 2024
Step up your post-surgery recovery with the right support, fit, and comfort
Dr. Bruce Pinker is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon with 50 years of experience, a professional foot and ankle health and wellness speaker, and an expert in corporate health and wellness. He is also a faculty member of the Wyckoff Heights Medical Center Podiatric Surgical Residency Program, Brooklyn, NY.
Read full bio of Dr. Bruce Pinker
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Foot surgery will keep you in bed for a while. But the weeks after that are crucial for your recovery and healing process too. Make sure that you invest in the best shoes after foot surgery so that you can recover quickly. Our feet are very important for our mobility, and we must ensure that we take care of them, especially while recovering from surgery. However small it may be, we urge you not to take it lightly. Trivializing small surgeries may prove harmful and risky as that can lead to faulty recovery and the need for successive surgeries.
Dr. Bruce Pinker, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, says, “CAM walkers (for Controlled Ankle Motion) can be worn after foot surgery to help get patients back into motion as they stabilize the foot and provide adequate protection. Post-operative shoes are beneficial for most patients after foot surgery because they are lightweight and easy to use.”
Surgery does not have to mean having to wear boring orthopedic shoes in the recovery period. You can now get the best dress shoes approved by orthopedic shoe specialists after foot surgery while on your road to recovery. You can pick from a wide variety of available choices that are stylish and comfortable. To help you with the process, we have made a list of the best shoes to wear after foot surgery. These expert-approved alternatives will ensure that you get back on your feet soon and also look fashionably cool. Go ahead and choose your pick.
In This Article
Types Of Shoes After Foot Surgery
- Orthopedic shoes
This is the most common kind of shoe after foot surgery that is generally worn right after a procedure and before the cast or bandages can be taken off to relieve you of foot pain. This type of post-surgery or postoperative shoe offers maximum support with an optimum heel height and leaves enough room for a change of dressing and bandages.
- Athletic shoes
Not everyone needs orthopedic shoes after foot surgery or foot injury. If you are lucky, you get away with a pair of good athletic shoes like running shoes or walking shoes that give you decent support and protection while you heal. Investing in a good pair means that your feet will be protected from further impact and harm so that you can heal at peace, without hindering too much of your daily activities. These will also offer optimal comfort and shock absorption.
- Dress Shoes
Like the name suggests, dress shoes are for that party that you just don’t want to miss, despite the foot surgery. The good news is that just because you have had foot surgery does not mean that you are stuck with ugly ankle braces in your recovery process. Dress shoes are a great option if you are looking for something to wear to an event. These are cushioned shoes, preferably without any strap or buckle, that are easy to slip on and offer you adequate comfort too.
10 Best Shoes After Foot Surgery To Recover Well (2024)
1. Best Orthopedic Shoes:United Ortho Short Air Cam Walker Fracture Boot – Black
For those looking for the best orthopedic shoes for after foot surgery, pick this one that promises good support with enough wriggle room for your foot. This means that you can go get your dressing or cast changed without worrying about not being able to fit into the brace. The front of the shoe is wide enough to allow a shock-absorbing insole that reduces the impact of heel strike when you walk. You protect your foot from trauma with the rocker sole back that allows you comfort to regain your usual gait. The braces on the side are molded in plastic but have steel support inside so that you get adequate protection. An air bladder sleeve inside provides the right amount of compression so that your foot is comfortable. Extra points to these bestselling shoes for the smart black color.
Pros
- Wide size with lots of room
- Air bladder for compression
- Plastic molds with steel support
- Rocker sole for easy movement
- Shock-absorbing shoes
- Smart black color
Cons
- Some might face issues with the sizing.
Quick Tip2.Best For Extra Comfort: Vive Post Op Shoe
This post-surgery shoe is your answer if you are looking for one that is less cumbersome than orthopedic boots but do not want to compromise on the support. With a versatile square design in front, your toes get ample room and you can easily fit in bandages or your cast. The heels come with a rocker insole padding and a non-skid feature so that your heel not only gets the support for a good gait but it also gets protection from skidding. The footwears are tested and trusted by many reviewers, and provides sufficient arch support so that you can enjoy both comfort and stability. Pick this pair of post-surgery supportive shoes made of premium quality materials to get started on a comfortable and speedy rehabilitation.
Pros
- Universal size and fit
- Rocket heel with no-skid feature
- Supports the arch of the foot
- Wide square-shaped design
- Enough room for cast or bandages
Cons
- Might not be suitable for heavy-duty use
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 4,046 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
3. Best Support:BraceAbility Closed Toe Medical Walking Shoe
Designed especially for wear after surgeries related to fractures, bunions or hammertoes, this pair of closed shoes is perfect for great support and stability as you embark on your journey of recovery. Keep your bandages or cast safe from dirt and impact with this shoe that also comes with a square toe design to give ample space to your toes. This allows room for swelling too, along with other issues with the foot after surgery so that your foot has enough breathing room. The rocker sole has plenty of rigidity and skid protection to allow you to regain your gait as soon as possible and reduces plantar pressure. It helps avoid slippage and corrects the positioning of your feet. The adjustable straps are added benefits that make this shoe a truly universal choice after foot surgery. You can also pick them up as fracture boots as they provide ample foot support to help you throughout the recovery period. Overall, this pair of orthopedic footwear offers extra comfort during your recovery time.
Pros
- Closed square toe design for extra protection
- Rigid rocker sole to absorb plantar pressure
- Keeps bandages and cast dry and dirt-free
- Adjustable straps for universal usage
- Specially designed for fractures, bunions, and hammertoes
Cons
- Some might find the sizing too small.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 2,873 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
4. Best Design:ProCare Squared Toe Post-Op Shoe
Choose this pair of post-foot surgery shoes for support and comfort. This has a closed-toe design that gives your toes extra protection but also a lot of room to fit in bandages and dressing. It also ensures protection from dust and water and keeps your post surgery dressing intact. The heel is rigid enough with rocker heel support to make sure that your foot has a good platform and absorbs the shock from impact. But just because you choose this over boots does not mean that you are compromising on support for your ankles. This pair also comes with ankle straps that give stability and helps you walk around worry free about your post-operation foot care. The surgical shoes come in a smart ergonomic design that can leave people confused between floaters and your post-surgery shoe!
Pros
- Closed-toe design to keep dressing dry and dirt-free
- Ankle straps for support
- Effective pain relief
- Rigid heel for rocker sole
- Square toe with plenty of room
- Waterproof and dust-resistant
- Sleek design in black
Cons
- The sole might not be rigid enough for a broken toe.
Quick Tip5. Best For Daily Use:FitPro Adjustable Post-Op Open Square Toe Shoe
Specially designed for women, this post-foot-surgery shoe gives enough support without looking too cumbersome. It has an open toe design with enough space in front to give your toes space to recover and feel the support as you walk. Regain your normal gait with confidence as you go about your day-to-day activities with this shoe that comes with a rocker sole. These comfortable shoes have a semi-rigid sole that gives you the right kind of support for your soles and arch. As per the reviewers, the straps for closure allow flexibility of wear and usage.
Pros
- Closure straps for flexible use
- Semi-rigid sole for optimum support
- Rocker sole protection
- Enough space in front for toes to heal
Cons
- Not of unisex size and design
6. Best Durable:Medline Post-Op Shoes
The Medline Post-Op Shoe are the perfect medical shoes made of durable nylon with soft lining inside. Whether a bunionectomy or a fracture, the semi-rigid shoe protects the feet and gives it the required cushioning. A molded heel collar keeps the foot in place and minimizes slipping. It offers stability and comfort with a removable tongue. A loop lock closure ensures a secured fit. The velcro straps of the cushioned flat shoes allow a customized fit as the swelling increases or decreases.
Pros
- Adjustable
- Easy to walk in
- Transitional shoes
- Enveloped fit
- Offers maximum comfort
Cons
- Sold as a single piece, not in a pair
Fun Fact7. Best For Stability:Brace Direct Post Op Recovery Shoe
Get this medical-grade shoe for after foot surgery for fast recovery to ease back into your pre-surgery life pronto. Designed with a shock-absorbent EVA sole that allows great airflow, this shoe allows faster recovery without any irritation to the skin from having to wear your cast and shoe all the time after your foot surgery. Relieve pain and pressure in your heel and toe with the ergonomic design that gives you a rocker sole and anti-skid treads to support your arch. Never have to worry about bumping your toes as the square-toed design gives you ample room for support and stability during your recovery journey. The shoe comes with 3 adjustable straps that let you tweak them for fit and all-day comfort. Don’t wait and get this so that you can get back into your favorite non-surgery pair of shoes really fast.
Pros
- Shocked-absorbent EVA sole
- Prevents skin irritation from wearing post-surgery shoe regularly
- Allows airflow
- Has 3 adjustable straps
- Non-slip sole and anti-skid tread
- Good arch support
- Medical grade design
Cons
- Some might find the sole too flexible.
8. Best Padding Insole:Darco Med-Surg Shoe
Broken toe or bunions for which you might have had to undergo a foot surgery cannot trouble you anymore as this shoe is guaranteed to help you in recovering from foot surgery. Built with an open-toe design that allows your toe enough room and protection from impact while you walk, this shoe provides support and stability. It has a double padding insole for comfort and stability and gives your sole a firm support. It also helps with the correct kind of positioning. The shoe is customizable with the option of a padded, removable insole as well. The velcro straps let you adjust the tightness for comfort.
Pros
- Square toe design
- Wide toe box
- Double padded insole
- Adjustable straps
- Customisable insole
Cons
- Some might find the footbed a little unstable.
9. Darco Post Op Shoes
The Darco Post-Op shoes are surgical and podiatrist-recommended shoes. They are perfect for broken toes, plastered feet, and nail issues. These walking boots form a foot brace that keeps the injured feet protected. The rubber sole prevents slipping, and the nylon outer shell is durable and strong. The velcro straps allow customizing the fit.
Pros
- Anti-slip
- Adjustable
- Affordable
- Large size
- Flexible
Cons
- Doesn’t look fashionable
10. Best For Extra Protection:Vive Offloading Post-Op Shoe
The wedge boots from Vive Offloading are post-op shoes used after surgery or for medical recovery. Who says all shoes after foot surgery have to be bulky and uncomfortable? These lightweight shoes have a forefront wedge that protects toes by keeping the pressure off them and shifting the weight to the heel. They are great to wear if you suffer from bunions, foot ulcers, or broken toes. The dorsiflexion angle of the wedge encourages the natural healing of corrective surgeries. The orthopedic shoes are trusted by reviewers for their exceptional quality, are made of polyester material and can accommodate bandaged or swollen feet. The offloading shoes are designed with two extender straps which can be fastened to adjust and secure the feet. Each shoe has a neutral base that can be used for either foot. A square, wide-toe box provides extra protection for sore toes.
Pros
- Lightweight shoes
- Non-skid
- High durability
- Reduces pressure
- Textured sole for stability
Cons
- Difficult to walk in
And now that we have looked at our favorite 10 shoes after foot surgery, here is making it easier for you to choose one for yourself
How To Choose The Best Shoes After Foot Surgery
- Type of support
Not all foot surgeries are the same and so, the kind of shoe after foot surgery that you need depends on the type and amount of support you need. A toe fracture will need a shoe that provides maximum support to your toe and also provides stability to your feet, so you should go for an open toe design. For an ankle surgery, you need maximum stability and support around your ankles preferably with compression, so you should ideally opt for an orthopedic boot with a good ankle compression sleeve.
- Type of sole
While most shoes after foot surgery are made with good, rocker soles that absorb the shock from impact and provide stability, the amount of support you need determines the kind of rocker sole you should go for. Firm rocker soles are needed for serious foot issues so that the muscles can be protected while you regain your gait. However, go for mid firm soles if your foot does not need that level of support.
- Type of material
While most shoes after foot surgery are made of a mix of cloth, nylon, and synthetic materials, the kind of shoe you pick depends on your level of comfort or the amount of maintenance the shoe needs. We suggest going for maximum comfort from breathable materials such as nylon mesh, which allows good circulation of air to let your skin breathe and also offers antimicrobial properties that can keep your foot safe from unwanted infections. You can keep away from using leather, as it might seem to be a soft material, but can put extra pressure on the foot due to its heavy weight.
- Degree of customization
While choosing shoes after foot surgery, it’s important to consider customizable options that offer flexibility and adjustability. While shoes are typically available in standard sizes, opting for the ones that allow adjustment is highly recommended. Go for velcro shoes with straps or hooks and loops that allow you to tighten and loosen as you please so that you can adjust them as per your comfort, especially when you have to fit bandages or your cast in them. You should avoid shoes with lace-up closure as they can put more strain on your foot.
Infographic: Tips To Choose The Best Shoes After Foot Surgery
You step closer to recovering when choosing the right shoes to wear after foot surgery. But how do you do that? Here’s an infographic to understand the important factors you should consider while buying the best shoes that offer support and safety. Scroll down for more information. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Feet are necessary for locomotion, and we must take care of them. Walking after a foot surgery can be crucial, it is essential to avoid getting injured during the recovery period. Footwear after surgery does not always mean wearing orthopedic shoes. You will need shoes that support your foot and help you recover at the earliest. A wide variety of dress shoes are available, which are fashionably cool, stylish, and comfortable. Some look like loafers and sneakers too. These have adjustable straps, and padded insoles, and are lighter in weight. If you want a shoe with shock-absorbing insoles, try the United Ortho Short Air Cam Walker Fracture Boot, while the Vive Post Op Shoe provides amazing arch support. You may also go for the Darco Med-Surg Shoe if you want extra cushioning, as it has a double-padded insole. However, some shoes may not be suitable for heavy usage. Follow the buying guide to pick the best one that addresses your concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
When to wear shoes after foot surgery?
Shoes after foot surgery are generally worn after the first dressing is done and strictly as per advice from your doctor.
What are the best shoes to wear after Bunion surgery?
Most people after a bunion surgery need a shoe that provides good support to the foot muscles and the arches with a good, firm rocker sole. However, it is best to follow what the doctor advises after your surgery.
Why do you have to wear a boot after foot surgery?
Wearing orthopedic shoes protects the foot from further injuries and helps recovery after surgery. It is the best way to ambulate safely and prevent the injured foot from swelling and infection.
Should you sleep in a post-surgery shoe?
A post-surgery shoe should be worn the entire day, even while sleeping to reduce pain and regain movement. These shoes can be both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing. Weight-bearing shoes are worn for six weeks post-surgery, and non-weight-bearing shoes are to be worn for 24-72 hours.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Priyam Gupta, is a fashion enthusiast who cannot be stopped from keeping it stylish at all times! This list of the best shoes after foot surgery comprises products that are stylish, comfortable, and come with rocker soles for easy movement. These products have been selected after thorough research and review. They have wide sizes with enough room for cast and bandages. Not only do these shoes have adjustable straps for easy usage, but they’ve been specifically designed for fractures, bunions, and hammertoes.
Read full bio of Dr. Bruce Pinker
Read full bio of Priyam Gupta
Read full bio of Srijita De
Read full bio of Shatabdi Bhattacharya
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