Posture may be wearing down your walking shoes, a physical therapist says

Physical therapist Molly Ruecker says posture and gait can cause uneven wear on walking shoes and outlines signs to watch for as well as a 28-minute walking routine intended to redistribute pressure and improve posture.

Molly Ruecker, a physical therapist at WalkFit, explains that how you walk can affect how quickly walking shoes wear out. She says poor posture or an imbalanced gait can place uneven pressure on footwear, causing faster or uneven wear and reducing cushioning and support. Ruecker notes specific wear patterns and links them to foot type and walking mechanics. She also describes a structured eight-step, 28-minute walking routine intended to help redistribute pressure during walking. Signs to watch for: - Wear on the inner or outer edge of the sole can indicate a gait imbalance, such as feet rolling inward or outward, or hip alignment issues. - Collapse in the middle of the shoe or midsole damage can be associated with flat feet or weak arches, while high arches may concentrate pressure on the heel and ball of the foot. - Uneven wear and altered walking mechanics are reported to increase the risk of foot, knee and hip strain and to shorten the useful life of shoes. - Ruecker recommends gait analysis and choosing footwear that matches arch type and the terrain you plan to walk on. - She provides an eight-step walking workout, totaling about 28 minutes, intended to redistribute pressure and support improved posture while walking. Summary: Uneven wear on walking shoes is described as a possible sign of posture or gait issues that can affect comfort, joint loading and shoe longevity. Ruecker highlights observable wear patterns, links them to foot type and alignment, and offers gait analysis and a 28-minute walking routine as ways to address those patterns. Undetermined at this time.