How to choose rehabilitation shoes! To improve your quality of life | column | 日常で気軽に実践できる片麻痺のリハビリ方法や機能を低下させない生活習慣などを解説

Definition and purpose of rehabilitation shoes! What kind of people should wear these shoes?

Rehabilitation shoes are shoes designed primarily for the elderly and those with walking difficulties to help them walk independently and return to daily life. In medical and welfare settings, they play an important role as an aid to assist with walking training and functional recovery. Unlike shoes for simple nursing care, they are often chosen as part of functional rehabilitation and are widely used in hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and by people recuperating at home.

The use of rehabilitation shoes is recommended in the following cases:

・People undergoing walking training after a stroke or fracture
-People who have difficulty walking due to muscle weakness or foot deformity
・Those who wish to consider using it in conjunction with braces
- Elderly people who want to reduce the risk of falling

What makes them unique is that they are specialized in functionality, such as preventing falls, being slippery, protecting the toes, and supporting walking movements. They also emphasize a fit that matches the physical condition of the user, such as by improving the hold on the heel area and using hook-and-loop fasteners and adjustable belts that can flexibly accommodate the circumference and width of the foot.

Additionally, there are many common specifications, such as:

When making your selection, keep the following points in mind to avoid making a mistake:

-Flexibility to accommodate not only size but also foot circumference (width) and swelling
-Easy to put on and take off (especially the hook-and-loop fastener and full-open style)
- Balance of grip and cushioning on the sole

Rehabilitation shoes that combine safety and comfort are not just a means of transportation but are a key tool that supports the quality of life (QOL). By choosing the right shoes, they can become an important item that gives you peace of mind and confidence in your daily life.

The difference between nursing shoes and rehabilitation shoes! How to choose the right shoes for your care needs

Nursing shoes and rehabilitation shoes are often confused, but their roles and functions are clearly different. By understanding the differences between the two, it is possible to choose the shoes that are best suited to the user's condition.

Please see the comparison table below.

For example, rehabilitation shoes are more suitable when walking training is performed in conjunction with an orthotic. On the other hand, if the purpose is to make the shoes easier to put on and take off, or to support movement and excretion during the day, nursing shoes are often more suitable.

Rehabilitation shoes serve as a tool for active intervention aimed at regaining physical function, and are characterized by their high level of functionality, such as the ability to sell single shoes, ankle hold design, and anti-fall soles.

Anti-slip, easy to wear, and compatible with braces! Things to check before choosing

The most important factor when choosing rehabilitation shoes is the balance between safety and comfort. As they are often used by elderly people and people with walking difficulties, the shoes must be able to be used without interfering with daily life. Here, we clarify the criteria for choosing rehabilitation shoes based on five important check items, such as fall prevention, ease of putting on and taking off, and compatibility with orthotics.

First of all, anti-slip functionality, which determines safety, is essential for all rehabilitation shoes. Whether for outdoor or indoor use, the grip of the soles is important to prevent falls.

The table below compares the main anti-slip materials and their features.

Next, comfort is also an important factor. The following structure is effective, especially when considering how to deal with braces and swelling.

1. Fully open design (opens wide)
   
2. Velcro fastener for one-handed adjustment
   
3. Soft collar and processing that reduces pressure on the ankles
   
4. Stretch material allows for adjustable foot circumference
   
5. Pull handle design for easy removal

For those who use braces, it is important to choose a model with a flexible internal structure that matches the thickness and hardness of the brace. It is also important to choose shoes that suit the condition of your feet, such as shoes with removable insoles or shoes made of elastic material that can fit even people with high insteps.

In this way, when choosing rehabilitation shoes, you can achieve both safety and comfort for the user by paying attention to the five major points of "anti-slip function," "ease of wearing," "compatible with orthotics," "flexibility in size adjustment," and "comfortable functions such as antibacterial and anti-odor properties." Products that have these features are likely to provide a high level of satisfaction to facility users and elderly people undergoing rehabilitation at home.

Characteristics of suitable shoes for different symptoms such as swelling, bunions, and hemiplegia

Understanding the characteristics of shoes suitable for each symptom can improve the effectiveness of rehabilitation and prevent problems in daily life. Common symptoms such as swelling, hallux valgus, and hemiplegia each require different shoe functions and structures.

First of all, if you have swelling, you need to consider that your foot size changes from day to day. In such cases, shoes that can be flexibly adjusted, such as those with hook-and-loop fasteners, full-open designs, and highly elastic stretch materials, are suitable. Also, shoes with room around the ankles and opening are preferred.

Next, for people with hallux valgus, shoes with a wide design that does not put pressure on the toes are ideal. Shoes with rounded toes and cushioning materials inside not only reduce pain, but also prevent the progression of deformation.

In the case of hemiplegia, there are many cases where the patient walks asymmetrically or wears a brace on one foot, so shoes with an asymmetric design or models that are sold individually are effective. In particular, types that allow easy adjustment of the foot width with Velcro are highly rated because they can be operated with one hand.

The table below summarises the recommended shoe features according to the main symptom.

As such, rehabilitation shoes require expertise to meet the needs of each individual symptom. Choosing shoes with the right features for your symptoms will improve your quality of life and prevent secondary disorders and problems.

Advantages and points to note when buying from online stores

When purchasing rehabilitation shoes online, the major attractions are the ease and variety of products. Major EC malls in particular offer a wide range of rehabilitation shoes in a wide range of designs and price ranges, and you can use reviews to help you make your selection. In addition, online shopping sites that specialize in nursing care products have detailed specifications for each purpose, such as models for the elderly, models compatible with braces, and models for indoor and outdoor use, making it easy to choose.

However, while these shoes are convenient, there are also some points to be aware of. The most common mistakes are with choosing the right size and returning the shoes. The fit of rehabilitation shoes varies greatly depending on the foot circumference, instep height, and compatibility with the brace, so if you choose shoes based on appearance alone, they may not fit. In addition, many products cannot be returned or exchanged because they are treated as hygiene products, so careful consideration is required.

Purchasing online is a very convenient option for those who find it difficult to go out or for those who do not have a physical store nearby. However, it is essential to do sufficient research beforehand on practical aspects such as size, fit, and ease of putting on and taking off. To increase your satisfaction after purchasing, it is key to choose a pair of shoes that suits your symptoms and living environment based on a wide range of information such as comparison tables, reviews, and expert comments.

Where can I try on products in a physical store? How to find a store that sells nursing care products

When considering purchasing rehabilitation shoes, we hear many people say that they want to actually try them on to check the fit. In particular, when choosing shoes that suit individual circumstances such as foot swelling, bunions, or whether or not you wear braces, it is ideal to check them out at a physical store. In physical stores, you can receive advice from specialized staff, which leads to peace of mind and a satisfactory purchase.

The main places where you can try on items are listed below.

It is especially important to note that where you can try on clothes varies greatly depending on the region. In urban areas, there are many options and you can compare prices at multiple stores, but in rural areas, the options are limited. In such cases, it is useful to find a store where you can try on clothes using the following methods.

• Search for "care shoes/try-on" and "rehabilitation shoes/stores" on Google Maps to see which stores have the highest reviews.
  
• Consult with your local comprehensive support center or local care manager and ask them to introduce you to a reliable retailer.
  
• Look for opportunities to see actual products by taking advantage of nursing care product exhibitions and local events.

In addition, in physical stores, you can talk directly with staff and they will suggest a model that suits your purpose and foot condition. For example, you can get an immediate response to specific inquiries such as "I'm wearing braces, do you have a design that will fit that?", "Are there shoes that won't slip on rainy days?", and "Which shoes are washable?" This is a major advantage that mail order does not have.

Rehabilitation shoes have many functions that cannot be judged by appearance alone, so we recommend trying them on at least once if possible. Checking in a physical store is the most reliable way to avoid mismatches after purchase and find a pair that you can wear comfortably for a long time.

When is it necessary for a hospital or facility to specify or prescribe a medication?

Some rehabilitation shoes require a doctor's diagnosis or a designated hospital or facility. In particular, rehabilitation shoes that are linked to orthotics or products that are covered by medical assistance systems cannot be purchased at your own discretion and must be checked by a medical professional.

Below is a summary of the main cases where medical institutions may need to be involved.

In such cases, the purchasing process will be different from normal. Specifically, the following steps are typically taken:

1. Receive examination and instructions from a medical institution (rehabilitation doctor or orthopedic surgeon)
   
2. We work with prostheticians and welfare equipment specialists to check the suitability of products
   
3. Purchase or order from a designated nursing care product dealer
   
4. Apply for subsidies from local governments and health insurance associations based on the required documents

Rehabilitation shoes that require prescription or specification must meet extremely high standards in terms of functionality and safety. Particularly during walking training and the early stages of recovery, the selection of appropriate shoes plays a major role in the effectiveness of rehabilitation. Choosing the wrong shoes can actually increase the burden on the legs and hips, and may even worsen the condition, so it is important to seek the advice of a doctor.

If you are unsure whether the rehabilitation shoes you are considering purchasing are covered by the system, be sure to check with your hospital or care manager. By working with a trusted expert, you can smoothly choose the best shoes for you and take advantage of the subsidy system. Collaboration with medical and welfare organizations is an essential element in achieving both practicality and reducing the financial burden.

Unlike ordinary shoes, rehabilitation shoes play a major role in restoring walking function, preventing falls, and improving quality of life. Choosing the right shoes for your feet is especially important for the elderly and those with hemiplegia, swelling, and bunions. Paying attention to points that are often overlooked, such as non-slip soles, ease of putting on and taking off with hook-and-loop fasteners, and compatibility with orthotics, can make a big difference in safety and comfort.

There are also characteristics of each purchasing method, whether it is online shopping or in a brick-and-mortar store. Online shops are very convenient for busy people, but you need to be careful about size selection and return policies.

On the other hand, at specialized stores for nursing care products, you can check the fit of the foot circumference, width, and opening on the spot, and receive advice from specialized staff. We recommend trying on shoes at a physical store, especially for those who are choosing rehabilitation shoes for the first time or who need fine adjustments to suit their symptoms.

In addition, there are cases where shoes are prescribed by a hospital or doctor, in which case health insurance or subsidy systems may apply. When purchasing shoes, it is essential to check cooperation with medical institutions and eligibility conditions.

To protect your feet and those of your family, compare the materials, structure, and functionality of shoes comprehensively and choose a pair that satisfies you. If you neglect to choose the right shoes, it may lead to unexpected expenses such as medical expenses and nursing care costs due to a fall. Choosing the best rehabilitation shoes is very important when considering the peace of mind and safety of your future life.

Power Assist Series Supports Hemiplegia Rehabilitation - LAP Corporation

LAP Corporation has developed and provides the Power Assist Series to support rehabilitation at home for people with hemiplegia due to cerebral infarction or accidents. This series is a robot that uses air pressure to gently move paralyzed joints in the fingers, ankles, and wrists to assist rehabilitation training. It can be easily used at home, enabling continuous rehabilitation. The product lineup includes the Power Assist Hand for fingers, the Power Assist Leg for ankles, and the Power Assist Wrist for wrists, and is compatible with the rehabilitation of each part of the body. Through these rehabilitation assistance robots, we will contribute to the recovery of function and improvement of the quality of life of everyone.

LAP Co., Ltd.
address	2-1-40 Oikawa, Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, 243-0212
phone	046-204-9343

inquiry

Q. If I purchase rehabilitation shoes online, I am worried about choosing the wrong size. How can I prevent this?
A.Unlike brick-and-mortar stores, you cannot try on shoes online, so many people have reported failures due to the size not fitting properly. It is especially important to check the size chart, which clearly states information such as centimeters, foot circumference, and foot width, and measure your own feet before making your selection. Some manufacturers sell shoes in single-foot sizes or with wide designs for rehabilitation, which can also be used for people with swelling or who use braces. Many products cannot be returned, so we recommend that you check the store's return policy and reviews to see how comfortable they are before ordering.

Q. What kind of rehabilitation shoes should I choose if I am using them in a facility or hospital?
A. Many elderly care facilities and hospitals require that rehabilitation shoes be used indoors. The sole material, anti-slip function, and safe heel design are required, and in some cases, room shoes are recommended. In addition, shoes with hook-and-loop fasteners or velcro are convenient in environments where shoes are frequently taken on and off. In some cases, the facility may specify the size, material, and color, so it is a good idea to check in advance and also look up the shortest delivery time and stock information.

Company name: LAP Co., Ltd.
Location: 2-1-40 Oikawa, Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, 243-0212
Telephone number: 046-204-9343