[jilliebean]

Originally Posted by JessicaGmz

I own a pair of crocs and love them dearly.

could never afford the expensive clogs. reebok dmx walkers (they come in wide)

[leaflet]

Your question is NOT silly at all! I have been doing some basic shoe research myself for a year now and am still at a loss. But from what I have learned, good support is important and what type of support you need is based on your own foot. I went to a foot store where they scanned my feet, showed me my pressure points, watched my gait closely to see if I roll my feet inward or outward, and posture is all affected by your feet too. What I would recommend is to learn a little about your feet and invest in a orthotic that works for your foot type. It can be a little pricey $60 or so, but worth it if it will save your feet and body in the long run. Orthotics are different than Dr. Scholl's. From what I have learned Dr. Scholl's actually just increases cushion for your foot, which seems nice at first, but really isn't very good for your feet. Your feet and body need more support. Then I would use an orthotic along with a good athletic or nursing shoe that has worked in the past, they may last a lot longer for you (My shoes seem to break down after a month or so.) and give you the support you need.

Now if you are willing and able to spend more money you can ge custom made orthotics for your feet. They last longer and will work the best. Then the shoe you would want is one for support and what will promote good posture and comfort.

Now one more thing I have to say, CROCS, really aren't that good for your feet if you are going to be on hard floors for twelve hour shifts. They are actually really bad. Once again the super cushion feels good, but is really bad for your feet and will not give support your body really needs. I have a pair of crocs and love them to wear around town and such, but when I get to work I really haven't found them to be that great. Sorry for the avid Croc lovers out there, When I am wearing them at work I notice that I really have less momentum in my step and have no support in my arches. Cushion may feel nice, but it is decieving.

Okay that's my opinion on shoes. Like you, I have been working on my own research to take care of my feet and body!

[VeryPlainJane]

When I worked on my feet long shifts...no matter how good the shoe was I only got a month's use out of them..it's just one of those expenses you have to shell out if you want to keep your legs and back in shape.

[Rhonda V]

Originally Posted by JessicaGmz

I own a pair of crocs and love them dearly.

I like Nurse-Mates a lot. I was always having low back pain, but I've noticed less problems since I switched to Nurse-Mates...should be available at most uniform stores.

Rhonda

[ckh23]

I have a pair of Nike Shox and they are great. I feel like I'm walking on air all night long. You can get them on ebay for about $60, which they can be about $100 retail.

[KaroSnowQueen]

Dansko Professional. Yes they are expensive. But not any more than other shoes that you have to keep replacing and replacing. I got mine direct from the Dansko site for $109. They are comfortable, have a good arch which translates into back support and I don't know why I waited so long to get some!!!!

[student4ever]

Originally Posted by KaroSnowQueen

Dansko Professional. Yes they are expensive. But not any more than other shoes that you have to keep replacing and replacing. I got mine direct from the Dansko site for $109. They are comfortable, have a good arch which translates into back support and I don't know why I waited so long to get some!!!!

These are the BEST shoes for those of us with high arches!!!! Nice firm support, great traction for when someone spills ice and forgets to clean it up... I found mine on Ebay for 80 bucks. These shoes are comfortable and last a long time, which they should, for the amount of money you pay for them. I just worked 7 12 hour shifts in a row, and went straight to class after work 5 of those days (read - on my feet for twelve hours, walking around campus for another couple hours 5 days in a row, and another 2 days of 12 hour shifts) and my feet don't hurt! If you MUST have squishy padding in your shoes, get the Dansko Professionals and put those gel insoles in them. My back never hurts either! I will live and die by these shoes... so worth the money!!!

[DutchgirlRN]

Originally Posted by Banana River

This may seem silly...but what kind of shoes have you found do your feet some justice after working 12 hour shifts?
My shoes seem to break down after a month or so. I have tried Easy Spirit..NIKE...Avia..Brooks...New Balance...
Has anyone tried Z Coil?
Ive found that if you dont have the right shoes..your back..legs..everything HURTS!
Do any of you wear support hose as well? Im not use to these longggg hours...<sigh> Thanks!

I used to have alot of problems with my feet and like you said it effects your whole body. I've been wearing Birkenstocks for 15 years and haven't had a problem with my feet since. I buy from e-bay, QVC or HSN for the best prices. I purchased mine in black so they hold up better.

[BSNDec06]

Dansko Professionals have my vote. I also have some Birkenstock clogs, and they are pretty comfortable. I've stopped buying athletic shoes because the cushioning wears out so quickly.

[grimmy]

I wear z-coil everyday in the OR, and I love them. Of course, they are NOT cheap at all, but you get a fitting like you've probably never had before, plus gait testing. So far, I've had this particular pair for a year, and they show no huge signs of wear, except at the toes, where I've had to wipe them down occasionally. You can go get a pair, wear them at home for a week, and if you hate them, take them back for a refund.
Since you are experiencing foot pain, see a podiatrist. Your problems may be other than shoe-related.