Scoliosis & Footwear—Does What You Wear Matter?
Shoes cannot cause or cure scoliosis, but they can influence comfort, balance, and joint load. Patients often ask whether specific footwear can help their curve or pain.
What Footwear Can and Can’t Do
Footwear can:
- Improve shock absorption and comfort.
- Support better alignment from the ground up.
- Work with custom orthotics or lifts where needed.
Footwear cannot:
- Straighten a structural curve.
- Replace bracing or targeted exercise.
Assessing Foot and Leg Alignment
At Dorsi Spinal Institute, we look at:
- Foot posture (e.g. flat feet, high arches).
- Leg length differences (functional or structural).
- Gait mechanics (how you walk).
This helps determine whether footwear adjustments or orthotics could reduce pain or improve balance.
Choosing Supportive Shoes
We usually recommend:
- Well-fitting shoes with good arch and midfoot support.
- Appropriate cushioning for activity level.
- Avoiding consistently high heels or very unsupportive footwear for long periods.
When Custom Orthotics Help
In cases with true leg length discrepancy or specific foot mechanics, custom orthotics and lifts may relieve symptoms and improve posture. These are prescribed only after proper assessment.
Next Steps
If you have scoliosis and struggle with foot, knee, or hip discomfort, Dorsi Spinal Institute can assess your lower limb alignment and advise on footwear and orthotics that support your spine care.
Related reading: see our blogs on adult scoliosis, orthotics, and work-related pain.
Written by
Dr Matthew ABJ Potts BSc MSc DC ISPRM
Clinical Director
Doctor of Chiropractic
Specialist Scoliosis Consultant
Fellow of the British Scoliosis Society
Member of the Scoliosis Association (UK)
Chair of the Clinical Advisory Board at Meloq AB
Member of the International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine
Editorial board member of international journals CICRJ & Rehabilitation Science
The information contained in this message is likely to be confidential and may be legally privileged. The dissemination, distribution, copying or disclosure of this message, or its contents, is strictly prohibited unless authorised by the Dorsi Spinal Institute. It is intended only for the person named as the addressee and if you have received this message in error, please immediately return it to the sender at the above address. Please follow the link to see our full privacy policy https://dorsi.uk/dorsi-spinal-institute-privacy-policy/
