In Search of a Solution

Dr. Carol Frey

Dr. Carol Frey
Leading Orthopedic Surgeon, Clinical Professor at UCLA
Advocate of women's foot and ankle health issues

Women suffer foot deformities 9 times more than men and this leads to over 80 million doctors visits each year. Shoes that do not properly fit cause deformities, including bunions, hammertoes, pinched nerves, corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails. Feet also start to take shape of ill-fitting shoes. It takes about ten years, wearing the typical women's fashion shoe, to develop the undesired bunions, hammertoes, corns, and calluses. In addition to foot problems, the impact from wearing high heels may accelerate osteoarthritis in the knees, hips and back.

A healthy shoe is designed well and fits well. A healthy shoe is made with a soft leather upper, a rounded toe box that does not constrict the toes, substantial cushioning that absorbs shock, rubber sole that provides traction with a heel height under 3 inches. A healthy shoe is comfortable from the moment the shoe is placed on your foot and there should be no break in period.

Oh! has designed shoes that provide women with fashion and variety without sacrificing health. Oh's unique patented construction offers the combination of superior support and cushioning, as well as beautiful materials and craftsmanship. This is indeed unique. Until now, I have not seen a shoe that truly beautiful and does not contribute to women's foot complaints. All other healthy shoes or those designed by orthopedic surgeons have been flat, practical, and predictable. Oh! steps it up more than a notch! It enters a realm of fashion that I have truly never seen in a healthy shoe.

Tips from Dr. Carol Frey for Choosing Healthy Shoes

  • Rounded or square toe box that does not constrict the toes
  • Stable heels, no more than 2 1/2" high
  • Breathable materials - good leather
  • Few seams, stitching and interior abrasions (look for a soft lining and no nails)
  • Cushioned insole at arch, toes, and heel (too much cushioning leads to cramping)
  • Rubber outsole (genuine rubber) for additional shock absorption and slip reductions.