Ask a PT

156 Posts
 
Posted - 03/17/2008 :  08:03:48  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
Our user asked: "I wrote recently regarding a heel fracture I suffered in Nov. 2007 and the pain I was having with the achilles tendon and outside ankle. Although the pain in these two areas has improved, it is still very present and I still have limited pronation/supination. I saw a nurse where I work who was wearing Z-coil shoes which I hadn't seen before and asked him about them. He said he won't wear anything else. What do you think about these shoes? They are very expensive, but may be worth it if my recovery takes quite some time to happen. Since returning to work and on my feet I am starting to experience some hip pain on the same side as my fracture and still walking on the outside of my foot. I can only see continued problems arising and need to return to a proper gait pattern. I'm just thinking that these weird-looking shoes might be the answer while I recover. Any information would be helpful. Thank you."

Ask a PT Response: "I don't know too much about the z-coil shoes but do remember seeing some people with them on in the gym. I took a look at their website and the research they offer. The two articles they have on the site are promising but further scientific studies which are published in peer review journals are warranted in order for what they are claiming to be conclusive. There are many products and shoes out there that make similiar claims ie. http://www.footsolutions.com/mbt_shoes.htm - http://www.footsolutions.com/mbt_shoes.htm . One thing that you would want to consider with the z-coil shoes is that you have sufficient stability and range of motion at your ankle to handle the other forces that may be generated by the spring of the shoe. If you don't it may not be a good ideal to be utilizing these shoes. I guess it might not hurt to visit a store and test a pair of these shoes for yourself and to consult with the PT that is working with you to see if he or she thinks the shoes would be appropriate for you. Pelase keep in touch as I would be very much interested to know how they work for you should you decide to purchase these shoes."