According to the researchers of the online site, Podiatry Channel, flat feet are defined as the arches or insteps of the feet touching a standing surface. Flat feet are also referred to as fallen arches or pronation. If flat feet are not cared for properly, or if too much stress is placed on them, injuries that include knee pain and tendinitis can occur. To help avoid such injuries, it is important to wear the right type of shoes when playing basketball.
Function
Good basketball shoes for flat feet allow you to play the game comfortably, and without pain. They also will prevent injuries from occurring over time. Basketball is game that involves a lot of impact to the body, starting in the feet and traveling upward. Due to the large amount of running and jumping required, you need a shoe that can support your feet -- and soften the impact.
Considerations
According to Alya Khalid, writer for the online publication Made Man, a good basketball shoe for flat feet has three important features. The heel of the shoe should be raised higher than normal to support your foot as it pushes off the ground. The shoe should provide extra stability for your gait. And the inside of the shoe should retain the arch of the foot and support flat feet. An unsupported arch is what leads to injuries.
Benefits
The benefits of wearing a good basketball shoe for flat feet are short term and long term. Short term benefits include being able to play the game with no pain. Long term benefits include avoiding hip pain and arthritis as you age.
Misconceptions
A common misconception is that if you have flat feet, you have to wear a basketball shoe designed for flat feet. While such shoes do help tremendously, they are not a necessity. You can wear any type of basketball shoes that feel comfortable. There is no guarantee will be injured if you do not wear a basketball shoe designed for flat feet.
Types
Alya Khalid lists three of the top basketball shoes on the market that support flat feet. Khalid likes the Nike Structure Triax +12, which is specifically made to be lighter while also providing more support for flat feet. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 9 is recommended because it also provides more stability for flat feet. Finally, there is the Reebok Trinity KFS III, which is designed to be sturdy enough to handle basketball players with wide feet.
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