Are Birkenstocks Orthopedic Shoes?

Birkenstock has been known as a brand that has crafted one of the most comfortable and supportive footwear designs in the history of shoes. Many consider a Birks pair as orthopedic, while others won't agree with that.

Birkenstock is considered a pioneer and frontrunner in producing orthopedic and arch-supportive sandals. The brand has made pairs that come with anatomically shaped insoles that are considered orthopedic. The whole Birken design, particularly their ever-famous footbed, is podiatrist-approved. 

If you are looking for an orthopedic sandal that a highly credible and reliable brand manufactures, Birkenstocks may be for you. There may still be hesitations but do not worry, because you've come to the right place!

In this article, I have elaborated on Birkenstocks being orthopedic shoes and what makes them one. I have also enumerated the benefits they offer for people with foot or knee problems.

What is an orthopedic shoe?

Generally, orthopedic shoes are designed for people with certain foot deformities. As therapeutic footwear, orthopedic shoes ensure patients' improvement in terms of walking

According to Pod Expert, an orthopedic shoe is a custom-made corrector of three specific dysfunctions. These are deformity, instability, and difficulty in wearing shoes. 

One must note that Birkenstocks are not custom-made orthopedic shoes. They can be considered mass-produced, which offers general correction. 

Custom-made orthopedic shoes with a specific mold are bought with a medical specialist's prescription. For you to get one, an examination must first be conducted. Then, a foot mold of yours shall be taken.

The specialist will be creating a prototype based on your foot mold. This is to be submitted to their orthopedic shoe manufacturer.

If you think your foot deformity or problem is not that concerning or critical, you can opt for a mass-produced orthopedic shoe like Birkenstocks. With their orthopedic footbeds, they can already cater to several foot problems.

However, if you have an existing foot dysfunction that significantly requires medical intervention, it is highly recommended that you consult a specialist first. When they suggest that a pair of Birkenstock would suffice, you have your go signal there!

Are Birkenstocks considered orthopedic?

Birkenstock London Sandcastle Suede Leather R 42 R EU

Birkenstock London Women's Shoes

Birkenstocks are considered orthopedic as they can be capable of assisting in the healing or improvement of specific foot problems. Although mass-produced and can't cater to specific and more severe conditions, they are incredibly therapeutic.

Many wearers can attest to this throughout the history of Birkenstock, including Margot Fasser, the woman who introduced Birks in the United States. After several months of pain, her foot got better after wearing Birks in just a few months!

Experiencing the miracles of Birkenstocks, she made the German brand known in America. She has imported Birks into the US market. Later on, Birkenstock USA was founded.

Why is Birkenstock considered orthopedic? 

The answer is because of their uniquely and anatomically curved footbed! Their insole comprises four natural materials: cork, suede, jute, and latex. Natural materials are considered helpful in ensuring support and breathability.

Birkenstock's orthopedic insole has a cushioning that gives off excellent comfort and stability. This contributes to preventing foot issues such as bunions, plantar fasciitis, or calluses. 

In addition, their footbed follows the contours of the feet, which makes equal weight distribution possible. The footbed design helps in reducing pressure or stress on specific foot areas such as the heel and arch.

Do podiatrists recommend Birkenstocks?

Birkenstock Women´s Profi-Birki Blue Alpro-Foam Sandals 35 EU (L4 US) R 074071

Birkenstock Professional Unisex Profi Birki Slip Resistant Work Shoe

Podiatrists approve of Birkenstocks primarily because the creation of its insole is a product of rich German craftsmanship and heritage. The Birkenstock family has long invested in manufacturing therapeutic insoles, which later on are referred to as footbeds.

The German family has introduced a uniquely designed footbed, deviating from what's traditional. Their bloodline successfully integrated a contoured footbed in creating sandals.

Due to their footbed design which features a deep heel cup and raised toe edges, Birkenstocks are recommended by many podiatrists, particularly the Arizona, Boston, Mayari, and Gizeh models. They are a good footwear choice for almost everyone!

Can Birkenstocks correct foot and knee problems?

Another great benefit Birkenstocks offer is that they are capable of promoting proper blood circulation. This is primarily because their material composition ensures that muscles and joints can relax while standing or walking.

The orthopedic footbeds make equal weight distribution and free blood flow possible. These make Birkenstock a good option for correcting particular foot and knee problems. 

However, if you're experiencing recurrent and severe conditions like predisposed arthritis, Birkenstocks may not be an instant solution for you. They can't ultimately serve as your band-aids!

Who can wear Birkenstocks as orthopedic shoes?

Birkenstock Arizona Women Two Strap Sandal, Dusty Blue, 10/10.5 US

Birkenstock Arizona Sandals

Notably, these Birkenstock insoles are great for people with flat feet. More so, they are also highly recommended for those experiencing minimal foot pains. However, as previously mentioned, it is best to consult a medical professional when these pains are recurring and getting severe. 

Birkenstocks may have orthopedic insoles, but they are mass-produced. This means that the foot mold of their footbeds is assumed to be compatible with everyone. When experiencing alarming or concerning foot or knee problems, maybe a specially made orthotics is best suited for you.

In general, you can make use of Birkenstocks as an orthopedic shoe regardless of foot shape. However, it would be best if you do not treat them as an absolute and long-term replacement for medical equipment like orthotics. 

Are Birks Orthopedic Shoes, Final Thoughts...

Without a doubt, Birkenstock is a great choice for almost everybody. Apart from being comfortable, stylish, and durable, Birks can assist or aid in averting foot or knee ailments or problems as they come with orthopedic and therapeutic footbeds.

Their orthopedic and ergonomic footbed design is invented to support the feet, especially the parts that experience excessive pressure when walking, such as the heel or arch. It also ensures proper circulation of blood and equal weight distribution.

Although, you have to keep in mind that there are some dysfunctions or conditions Birkenstocks can't handle or solve a hundred percent. If you are looking for an orthopedic sandal that will make a severe pain you're experiencing go away, you must consult a specialist first to get a prescription or treatment done.

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