Orthotic shoe help

[r5bales]

A very good friend of mine cannot wear just any shoe. She was in an accident that left one leg an inch shorter than the other, with some major nerve damage - Her feet feel like electricity shooting up her sole when she walks barefoot, so she needs a lot of padding in her shoes.

She doesn't have a lot of money to throw around, but needs some shoes that can be adjusted and have orthotic inserts installed. Here is my question. Do any of you know of a brand of shoe that is designed for problem feet?

I have done the web searches, but would like some input from you all.

[galligator]

There is a store in Western Wa (around the Seattle-Lynwood area) called Neovita (NeoVita - Foot Comfort Center) - this is the 1st place I would consider calling for special orthopedic issues.

[galligator]

I ran into some sites last week. I bookmarked them on our other computer, I will try to get you the info soon-ish.

[r5bales]

Thanks Gal, I am trying to decide if I want to buy them for her as a gift, or just refer her to web sites. I know she would appreciate both.

[galligator]

The most useful keyword search I found (aside from getting special ortho shoes) I discovered on an unrelated hunt:

"Odd Shoes" brings up several orginizations & charities for people who need solo, mismatches sizes & related shoe-finding challenges.

In you friend's case, it still might be necessary to visit a cobbler, as well (adding on a platform to one shoe, perhaps), but it seems like these communities might have a better idea & possibly know more resources that could help her out.

Some of the various sites I encountered:

Mismatched Shoes:
Fact Sheet: Mismatched and Single Shoes
Odd shoes market - Buy and Sell Mismatched Shoes Online - Spot : RobyJohn's Spot - RobyJohn - Jamespot Article
National Odd Shoe Exchange

Anyway, some custom work is obviously needed. I have an aunt that had special orthotics made from Neovita & is so happy that she did. It was not cheap, but she felt it was well worth it.
Odd shoes market - Buy and Sell Mismatched Shoes Online

[badbatz]

nice but not good!