Step Stronger: Foot Support for Osteoarthritis in Singapore’s Golden Years
If you’re a senior in Singapore and your feet hurt just walking to the coffee shop or climbing a few MRT stairs, you’re not alone. As we age, foot pain due to osteoarthritis (OA) becomes a common companion. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to slow you down.
With the right foot support, shoes, and expert care, you can stay mobile, active, and independent. Let’s break it down.
What is Osteoarthritis of the foot?
Think of osteoarthritis like the wear and tear your HDB tiles face after years of daily use. OA happens when the protective cartilage in your foot joints breaks down, and when bones rub against each other, you feel it: pain, stiffness, and reduced movement.
In your feet, OA usually affects:
- The joint at the base of your big toe (hello, painful steps!)
- The midfoot area
- The ankle joint
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
OA of the foot may show up as:
- Aching feet after your morning walk or grocery run
- Stiffness when you first get up from your sofa or after sitting at the hawker
- Swelling or tenderness around your joints
- Trouble fitting into your usual shoes — especially closed ones
If this sounds like your daily routine, it might be time to seek proper foot support.
How can orthotics help with osteoarthritis foot pain?
Orthotics are special insoles you slip into your shoes. They’re designed to support your feet in all the right places, reduce pressure on painful joints, and improve stability.
At Physio & Sole Clinic, we provide custom orthotics using 3D foot scans and gait analysis. They’re especially helpful if you have:
- Flat feet or overly arched feet
- Knee, hip or lower back pain that worsens when walking
- Poor balance or history of falls
It’s like upgrading from an old mattress to one that’s properly supportive.
What are the best shoes for seniors with osteoarthritis of the foot?
In our hot and humid climate, many of us love our flip-flops or slip-ons. But those might be doing your joints more harm than good.
For seniors with OA, look for:
- Wide toe boxes – so your toes aren’t cramped
- Cushioning in heel and forefoot areas – to offload pressure points
- Firm soles – for shock absorption and balance
- Adjustable straps or laces – for a secure fit (bonus: easier to wear if your feet swell!)
It is recommended to visit a podiatrist to find out what’s best for you.
Where can seniors get orthotic foot support in Singapore?
You don’t have to wait in a long queue at the hospital. In fact, many seniors choose private clinics for faster, personalised care.
At Physio & Sole Clinic, we offer:
- Custom orthotics tailored to your walking pattern
- Gait assessments to see how your feet move
- Friendly, multilingual staff to guide you (English, Mandarin, dialects included!)
We’re located all over the island — from Orchard and Tampines to Jurong and Yishun.
What other treatments can help osteoarthritis foot pain?
Besides wearing the right shoes and orthotics, these can make a big difference:
Physiotherapy
- Gentle strengthening and stretching exercises
- Manual therapy to reduce joint stiffness
- Tips to improve posture and balance
Weight Management
- Even losing a few kilos can ease pressure on lower limb joints (your knees and feet will thank you!)
Low-Impact Activities
- Swap long walks with swimming or cycling
- Avoid standing too long on hard surfaces like wet markets or tiled kitchen floors
Pain Relief Options
- Ice packs or medicated patches
- Oral anti-inflammatories (as advised by your doctor)
- Corticosteroid injections for severe cases
Common Myths About Foot Pain in Seniors
- “Foot pain is just part of ageing.”
Not true. Pain is your body’s way of saying it needs attention. With early support, many seniors regain full comfort.
- “Only surgery can fix arthritis pain.”
Most foot OA can be managed conservatively, with orthotics, footwear changes, and physiotherapy.
- “Running or walking makes arthritis worse.
Movement is medicine! Low-impact activity keeps joints healthy when done correctly.
Subsidies & Support in Singapore
CHAS (Orange & Blue) & Pioneer Generation Cardholders
- Eligible seniors can seek referrals from polyclinics for subsidised podiatry or physiotherapy.
At Physio & Sole Clinic, we accept CHAS cards for selected services — terms and conditions apply. Direct bookings are available with no referral needed, making it ideal for faster assessment and custom orthotics fitting.
You Don’t Have to Live with Foot Pain
Too many seniors think foot pain is just “part of ageing.” It isn’t.
With early care and the right foot support, you can walk further, stand longer, and do the things you love — whether it’s morning exercises, taking care of grandkids, or joining your community walk.
Let our team at Physio & Sole Clinic help you walk pain-free again with podiatrist-approved footwear, custom orthotics, and senior-friendly physiotherapy.
Book your appointment today — and take your first step toward happy, healthy feet!
