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If you are running with Degenerative disc disease or DDD. Look at the best running shoes.
[last Updated On March – 9 – 2023]
Nothing is more vital than maintaining spine health. It supports our whole body and gives us the ability to walk, run or perform home tasks. A healthy back allows us to play with our grandchildren, garden, and do daily routine tasks.
You might be surprised to know that Degenerative disc disease is not a disease. It is a term used to describe changes in the spinal discs, which are a part of the natural aging process. It does not matter how well (or not) we are in shape. As we grow older, our body tends to break down.
Running Shoes And Degenerative disc disease
Before we go further, keep in mind that the right Shoe can help in reducing symptoms. Shoes alone rarely fix medical injuries.
In most cases, Shoe is part of an overall recovery plan with proper treatment, including physical therapy, Stretches, and other activities depending on your condition.
Once you’ve experienced Degenerative disc disease, It’s time to switch on shoes that provide proper arch supper, max-cushioned, better stability, and the shock-absorbing feature that can make your running comfortable with DDD.
These shoes are great when running with knees, thighs, and lower back pain since they are meant to absorb shocks better, provide better comfort and stay stable during rides better than other shoes.
Why Shoes Are Important With Degenerative Disc Disease?
When running on rigid pavements, the feet and knees have to bear shocks and impacts, but our spine gets repetitive hits of foot strikes as well.
If you are wondering what the connection is between my shoes and the pain in my back. The medical reason behind this backache is that the human body’s largest and longest nerve (Sciatic nerve) originates at the base of the spinal cord along the back of each leg directly into the foot. Constantly wearing improper shoes can give you backache.
To eliminate the pain of degenerative disc disease, you need shoes that assimilate sway as your foot hits the ground after feet meet the ground. Investing in quality shoes gives you a smooth and agreeable walk or run.
If you are not into running look at the best orthopedic shoes for back pain.
Anyway, how to choose the best running shoes for degenerative disc disease is an exaggerating task. Yes! It is. Below we have suggested some specific shoes for degenerative disc disease. Chiropractors and running experts recommend them after running 50 miles in them. But, if you don’t feel extra support or relief after a few runs, we recommend you stop and consult your doctor or chiropractor around you.
Best Running Shoes For Degenerative Disc Disease
NOTE: We have not gathered shoes from all over the internet and put them here. Each shoe appears on the list after reading reviews, and personal preferences. And, a verdict from the shoe owner. let’s have a look at the best running shoes for degenerative disc disease.
1. New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v11 – Best For Wide Feet
| Men’s Shoe | Women’s Shoe |
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| Check Price | Check Price |
Shoe Specification
| Size | True to size |
| Surface | Road |
| Weight | Men 285g | Women 227g |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 8mm |
| Arch support | Neutral |
| Arch type | High Arch |
Key Features
- The upper has the design to lock your foot and forms the shape of your foot and move with you.
- The Midsole offers full-length fresh X foam which offers a great level of energy return.
- The blown rubber outsole adds life to the shoe and offers a grip on most terrain.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v11 Review
Just think! The company has launched its 11th version of the same model. It must be worthy enough that they keep repeating it. Let’s review its 11th model today.
The 11th model from New Balance Fresh foam 1080 is a tremendous daily running shoe. They grip most of the surface well with tons of cushioning.
The amount of cushioning in them makes them fall into the category of heavyweight shoes. But, The addition of weight due to more cushioning seems to be no problem when running with DDD. It is what you are looking for, right? More support and an excellent level of comfort for your legs and back.
1080 v11 tested this model on different surfaces like Cement, slick sidewalks, Concrete, and Asphalt, and it was stable. With long runs, you’ll be able to move fast if wanted to pick pace at any point.
It is an excellent option for runners with wide feet, as it is available in 4 widths, including wide and extra wide.
We have listed this shoe as the best running shoe for degenerative disc diseases because of the energy return from its midsole. The midsole absorbs most of the shocks when hitting the ground. It feels like running on marshmallows. It has a heel-to-toe drop of 8mm, so if you are a heel striker runner, you can feel soft landings.
Above All, The outsole is very durable, and there is no chance of wear and tear after 100 miles. There is no doubt that it offers a great amount of grip on most terrain.
The heel counter locks the shoes well without irritating Achilles. There is 30mm cushioning under the heel that supports the ankle well. If you are one with bad ankles this deserves a worthwhile try.
Why We Like it
- The upper blanket hugs the foot really well.
- Better energy returns than previous models.
- Better cushioning than previous models
Why We Don't Like it
- The lacing system is a bit annoying.
2. ASICS Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes – Best Mid-Level Trail Shoes
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Men’s Shoe |
Women’s Shoe |
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Shoe Specification
| Size | True to size |
| Terrain | Trail |
| Weight | Men 10.7oz / Women 8.9oz |
| Drop | 10mm |
| Arch support | Neutral |
Key Features
- Trail-Specific Outsole -Reversed lugs provide uphill and downhill traction on all types of terrain.
- AHAR Outsole -Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability.
- Rearfoot GEL technology cushioning System -Attenuates shock during the impact phase.
ASICS Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoe Review
ASICS Gel-Venture 7 is a budget model meant for short to mid-distance trail running shoes. If you are planning to run 5-10 miles, the feature it offers is perfect for you. On the other hand, If you are a pro and want long-distance is shoes it is not made for you (then look for Asics GT-2000 8). The price according to the feature they offer is acceptable.
We have tested this model on gravel paths, forests, sandy rock, and dirt tracks and find it grippy and comfortable. It was only a bit slippery on sandy rock terrain. The outsole was not too flexible but offered a good grip. There were no issues with the fit.
It was true to size with a narrow toe box. A trail running shoe typically has a narrow toe box.
The outsole is generally what we are paying extra for trail running shoes. It offers a multi-directional V-shaped design which is meant for increasing forward and rear motion grip. In the end, It was fair enough for beginner-level trail running shoes.
We have picked this model as a shoe specifically for degenerative disc diseases because its GEL technology is integrated into the heel. It absorbs shocks well.
Why We Like it
- the mesh is more breathable
- The heel cup is much more solid and stable
- The tongue is more padded
Why We Don't Like it
- Not Suited for Highly Technical Terrain
3. ASICS Gel Nimbus 22 Running Shoes – Best Stable Running Shoes
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Men’s Shoe |
Women’s Shoes |
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Shoe Specification
| Size | True to size |
| Terrain | Road |
| Arch support | Neutral, Light trail |
| Weight | Men: 309g | women: 255g |
| Drop | Men: 10mm | women 13mm |
| Arch type | High arch |
Key Features
- Additional + deeper outsole flex grooves for a smooth ride.
- A new monofilament meshes upper material that’s softer and more reliable.
- A larger section of GEL cushioning technology that wraps all the way around the heel for improved rearfoot impact protection no matter where you land
ASICS Gel Nimbus 22 Running Shoes Review
ACICS GEL-Nimbus offers great stability with cloud feel comfort. The outsole was ready to bear surfaces like road, light trail, and uneven surfaces.
It is ready for your if you want to run on roads, treadmill, light rail, use as cross trainers(weight lifting after treadmill), even for run short to long-distance runners. However, It is not built for speed but to cover more miles.
Similar alternatives to ASICS would Gel-Nimbus 22 are “Brooks Men’s Ghost 12″, “Saucony Ride 10″ and “Saucony Triumph ISO 5″.
It is a natural running shoe, fits true to size. From the first run, It offers a great feeling of security, responsiveness, and comfort with each step. It was the right fit with enough space in the toe box. There was no problem length-wise but quite snug around the midfoot area.
The padding around the heel not only makes the shoe feel premium but offers a secure fit without irritating the Achilles.
The feature it shoes offers is great for someone prone to injury or running with back or knee pain. The term “GEL” represent in the ASICS GEL-Nimbus is a gel in the outsole which offers gel cushioning. It absorbs the shocks better than other running shoes, leading to less stress on the joint and a comfortable ride.
Besides gel cushioning, The midsole offers flyte foam cushioning. These two elements combine to provide superior cushioning and much better protection for your feet. with the addition of a double-layered upper, It secures the foot from heel to toe.
Why We Like it
- The nimbus 22 is lighter than the previous models.
- There is a lot of shock-absorbing rubber at the sole.
- Recommended for people with flat feet
Why We Don't Like it
- Not a budget-friendly shoe
4. Brooks Ghost 12 Running Shoe – Best Daily Running Shoes
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Men’s shoe |
Women’s Shoe |
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Shoe Specification
| Size | True to size |
| Terrain | Road |
| Arch support | Neutral |
| Weight | Men 295g | Women 264g |
| Drop | 12mm |
| Arch type | High arch |
Brooks Ghost 12 Running Shoe Review
The Brooks Ghost 12 is ideal for those who are seeking a single shoe for all occasions. They deliver a well-cushioned natural and smooth ride.
The ideal utilization of ghost 12 will be used as a daily running shoe, running 5k, recovery runs, running with back or knee pain, or for heavyweight runners.
The surfaces that ghost 12 is ready to dive into are treadmills, cinder trails, and on-off roads. But, The ideal surface would be paved surfaces such as asphalt, concrete, and sidewalks. It offers a well-cushioned ride and will last longer than the average running shoe.
Similar alternatives to brooks ghost 12 would be “ASICS Gel-Cumulus 21“, “Saucony ride iso 2”, “Nike Air Pegasus 36”, and “New Balance 880v9”.
It has a heel-to-toe drop of 12mm that gives more cushion to the heel and minimizes the impact on your lower back and knees. If you are a heel striker, you’ll feel a soft landing and bouncy responsiveness with each step.
The outsole was covered with durable blown rubber, which adds weight to the shoe but offers maximum grip. The outsole makes them ideal in this price category as other running shoes that utilize the same outsole are a bit more expensive.
It went true to size for most of the runners with enough room in the toe box. If you have Morton’s neuroma (pain in the ball of feet) you are open to using it as the toe box is not limited. After finding a sweet spot in lacing, you’ll feel secure and comfortable.
Why We Like it
- The updated outsole is ready to provide grip on wet and dry surfaces.
- Sufficient padding around the heel corners.
- The feature in offers price-wise is appealing
Why We Don't Like it
- The higher stack makes it unstable on uneven surfaces
5. Reebok Forever Floatride Energy 2 – Best Budget Model
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Men’s Shoe |
Women’s shoe |
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Shoe Specification
| Size | True to size |
| Terrain | Road |
| Arch support | Neutral |
| Arch Type | High arch |
| Drop | 10mm |
Key Features
- Shaft measures about low-top from arch
- Mesh upper is lightweight and breathable
- Floatride Energy Foam provides lightweight, cushioning, and responsiveness.
Reebok Forever Floatride Energy 2 Review
The stylish budget-conscious running shoe is ideal for a lightweight daily running shoe. The ride it offers feels soft and smooth for both slow and fast paces.
The feature they offer is perfect according to this price range. However, They might not be the best running shoes for degenerative disc disease, if you are a heavyweight runner or wish for long runs.
It is meant for short to medium runs, tempo runs, running 5k and 10k as well for half to full marathons.
The ideal utilization of this shoe will be on treadmills, running on roads, flat and hard soils, and is not meant for trail running. The exciting thing about these shoes is they are not typical-looking running, stylish enough to be utilized as sneakers.
The outsole it offers is what we were not expecting in this price range. It offers a carbon rubber outsole from heel to toe, which adds life to the shoe and offers a good grip.
The grip and cushion will work well for daily running or a max of 5k to 10k. But it is thin for longer runs. don’t expect what you expect from premium running shoes.
The upper is the same as the previous model, nothing seems to change. but, no issues with that. It was solid, engineered mesh, breathable and flexible.
The midsole is also the same as the previous version, but there is no reason seem for changing them as well. The midsole has utilized FloatRide foam which is bouncy, adds cushioning, and provides great shock-absorbing features which are ideal for mid-level runners.
According to the Rebook, The lightweight heel counter is designed to lock your foot but if you are a heavyweight you might have blisters during runs.
Our Verdict:
If you are an average-weight person who needs a running shoe to cope with their daily running needs and provide extra support, There is no reason left to see for not to try it
Why We Like it
- This shoe gives plenty of cushioning and bounce without being over-spongy.
- the sole is very cushy.
- Perfect for people with flat feet.
Why We Don't Like it
- It feels a bit stiffer at first.
6. ASICS Gel-Contend 7 Running Shoe – Best For Beginners
| Men’s Shoe | Women’s Shoe |
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| Check Price | Check Price |
7. Hoka One One Bondi 5 Running Shoes
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Men’s Shoe |
Women’s Shoe |
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Shoe Specification
| Size | True to size |
| Terrain | Road |
| Weight | Men: 283g | Women 241g |
| Drop | 4mm |
| Arch support | Neutral |
| Arch type | High arch |
Key Features
- Breathable Mesh Upper keeps the wearer cool and dry. Also, provides a breathable environment.
- Ortholite Insole provides additional cushioning for arch support and durable comfort.
- Open Engineered Mesh construction to maximize breathability and support.
- Zonal Rubber Placement for Durability
Hoka One One Bondi 5 Review
The Bondi 5 has all the earmarks of being the ideal shoe for degenerative disc disease. The Hoka one brand is known for its extreme cushioning in its shoes.
The Bondi 5 is the fifth cycle of one of Hoka One’s absolute first models. It is their most advanced shoe promising to convey amazingly delicate cushion and solace for any distance.
The shoe includes an overhauled upper containing a designed lattice and consistent development.
The shoe is likewise worked with beginning phase meta rocker innovation like what’s utilized in the mainstream Clifton 3 and different other Hoka models.
Our Verdict:
The principal thing I saw about this shoe is the designed lattice utilized in the upper. It stands apart because it looks decent and is smooth and adaptable.
With a stack stature of 37mm in the heel and 33mm in the toe, you can feel taller. Also, you can feel the thick layer of padding packing as you stroll around. The cushion feels delicate.
Why We Like it
- These are lighter than many other running shoes.
- Recommended for people with wide flat feet.
- Appreciable Traction for a road shoe
Why We Don't Like it
- These are not budget-friendly shoes
8. Saucony Redeemer ISO 2
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Men’s Shoe |
Women’s Shoe |
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Shoe Specification
| Size | True to size |
| Terrain | Road |
| Arch support | Stability |
| Weight | Men 240g | women 290g |
| Drop | 8mm |
| Arch type | Low arch |
| Foot Condition | Flat foot |
Key Features
- Shaft measures about low-top from arch
- Engineered mesh upper for a dynamic lightweight fit
- Foundation Platform for a more volume fit throughout
Saucony Redeemer ISO 2 Review
The Redeemer is an attractive running shoe, to the extent that customarily assembled security shoes can look great.
ISOfit framework from Saucony unquestionably closely resembles a superior-built shoe. The upper is delicate at the touch and the heel cup is cushioned with a delicate froth or material.
At the top, directly under your feet, there is a full layer of EVERUN. Saucony’s most up-to-date compound, similar to Adidas’s Boost, is a combination of thousands of miniature fun TPU beds. This layer is delicate however responsive.
The padded sole is created by a standard froth with a very durable average post for strength.
The outsole is exceptionally level with a significant wide base and its plan depends on Saucony’s TRI-FLEX for a decent flex and toe-off.
The upper is fabricated utilizing Saucony’s ISOFIT framework, which is essentially a bootie development with an outside exoskeleton to which the bands clutch. An exceptionally durable plastic heel counter is applied outwardly.
The lattice is entirely adaptable and agreeable, there are no appears to be inside and the heel is all around cushioned with what I accept to be adaptable padding.
the EVERUN layer is truly pleasant on the ground and the solidness is unquestionably there. The 8mm drop is overall quiet the shoe moves well all through the stride. I feel it would turn out extraordinary for long sluggish runs and recuperation days.
9. Vionic Women’s Brisk Alma Lace-up Sneakers – Ladies Walking Shoes with Concealed Orthotic Arch Support
Shoe Specification
| Size | True to size |
| Arch support | Stability |
| Weight | 170g |
| Closure | Laceup |
Key Features:
- Casual sneakers lace up for an adjustable fit and are ideal for everyday wear.
- They are orthotic, lightweight athletic shoes that are perfect for walking.
Vionic Women’s Brisk Alma Lace-up Sneakers Review
The Vionic Alma is developed to keep the feet upheld during extensive stretches of utilization. It uses the brand’s Advanced Motion System (AMS) innovation, which is the blend of a light and breathable cross-section upper, padded sole, and a podiatrist-planned orthotic insole.
the Vionic Alma is accessible in the US sizes 5 to 11, remembering half and full sizes for between. Concerning the width, it comes in both B – Medium and D – Wide. The neoprene collar is proposed to fit like a sock for a protected lockdown.
Elastic lines vital spaces of the sole unit which incorporate the ball and the heel areas. This compound is created to be sturdy and improve the foothold of the underside. There are likewise flex grooves that advance multi-directional development and hold.
The Vionic Alma utilizes a full-length padding unit for stun weakening. Inside the mentor is a removable insole made of ethylene-vinyl acetic acid derivation (EVA) froth for improved underneath solace. This segment is shrouded in a network that helps wick dampness away from the foot.
The Vionic Alma sports a creative development with a cozy fitting collar made of neoprene. The remainder of the upper is a human-made material that keeps the inside very much ventilated.
This coach includes a binding framework that can be utilized to fix the fit at the midfoot if necessary. Texture circles are available on the tongue and the rear of the collar so the coach can be handily pulled on.
Why We Like it
- Support is better than many other tennis/walking shoes.
- Very helpful in recovering planter facilities.
- This shoe is very light in weight.
Why We Don't Like it
- This shoe is very light in weight.
10. Under Armour HOVR Machina
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Men’s Shoe |
Women’s Shoe |
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Shoe Specification
| Size | True to size |
| Terrain | Road |
| Arch Support | Neutral |
| Weight | Men 295g | women 247g |
| Drop | 8mm |
| Arch type | High Arch |
Key Features
- It has a solid rubber outsole that covers high-impact zones and provides greater durability.
- External heel counter for added stability & a locked-in feel.
- Thich material in the toe covers the forefoot protection.
- Air can easily flow in and out for ventilation. It is a breathable shoe
Under Armour HOVR Machina Review
As indicated by Under Armor, the HOVR Machina is the organization’s best running shoe to date. It’s worked to be responsive and lightweight. And, on account of another cushion sole plan. It additionally incorporates 20% more HOVR cushion froth than its stablemate, the HOVR Infinite.
The Machina’s Pebax plate has three prongs that add structure and a smart sensation at toe-off. Straight over the plate, a high-thickness EVA froth layer balances out the plate,
Under Armor utilized a blend of rubbers to boost footing and padding from the outsole. High-wear territories like the impact point and average forefoot utilize hard, dependable carbon elastic, and delicate blown elastic is utilized in the forefoot to add padding and grasp.
HOVR froth is one of Under Armor’s greatest running developments of the previous few years. It’s a restrictive equation produced using olefin wax, and it conveys great pad and responsiveness with low weight. It’s encircled by an “Energy Web” lattice to help the froth hold its shape—you can see it on the outside of the Machina’s padded sole.
Our Verdict:
The one-piece, designed cross-section upper is breathable yet not stretchy. The shoe started to fit too cozily after 5 or 10 miles. The fit is consistent with the size.
Why We Like it
- This shoe has Bluetooth and can be connected to the Under Amour app, so you can run it while leaving your cell phone at home.
- The traction given by the external pad is confidence-giving and very reliable
Why We Don't Like it
- Some testers complain blisters on the foot after long use
How to pick the best running shoes for degenerative disc disease? (Complete Buying Guide)
Generally, a decent pair of shoes improves and balances out the situation of your feet, which, thusly, improves your step and stance.
Great stance prevent muscle strain and torment in the back. The fact is that it keeps everything in the right arrangement and permits muscles, bones, and joints to work productively.
Things you need to focus on while purchasing the best shoes for degenerative disc disease.
Consider Arch Support
The curve backing of your shoe ought to be intended to work with the normal curve of your foot. Your foot curve may be either unbiased or high.
People with level feet or high foot curves may make the foot and lower leg overpronate. Overpronation implies the foot unnecessarily rolls descending when the foot hits the ground.
This disturbs the body’s arrangement and expands the effect of strolling or running, conceivably causing injury or torment.
Consider Cushioning
When picking the best shoes for degenerative disc disease, consider on the off chance that they give sufficient padding. Padding will help disseminate the shock of impact and minimize the effect on your back.
The piece of the shoe that shields your foot from sway is known as the padded sole. The padded sole is situated between the piece of the shoe that contacts the ground called the outsole, and the part that runs straightforwardly under the foot called the insole.
The padded sole is the outer stun retaining part and may be made of polyurethane froth, ethylene vinyl acetic acid derivation (EVA), or another material.
EVA padded soles are by and large more lightweight than polyurethane, yet polyurethane is more sturdy.
By and large, if you have a high curve, it very well may be ideal to pick a milder padded sole. People with low curves ought to pick firmer padded soles to give more movement control. To test the padding, drive your thumbnail into the padded sole and decide the solidness.
Avoid the use of High Heels
In the United States, billions of dollars are spent on vogue footwear like high point wears every year. High heels look exquisite and regularly pair well with an expert closet.
Be that as it may, wearing heels causes your lower back to curve and your chest to push ahead, tossing your spine out of its normal arrangement.
This can prompt muscle abuse, lower back torment, and perhaps other back issues. High impact points are likewise hard on the curve and bundle of the foot, prompting back torment.
FAQ’s
Is walking bad for degenerative disc disease?
No, walking daily but according to your doctor’s recommendation will help you to cure the disease. Normal vigorous exercise, like strolling, swimming, or taking a low-sway heart stimulating exercise class, has been appeared to help ease torment, advance a solid body weight, and improve general strength and portability—exceptionally significant factors in overseeing DDD.
This may seem as though a great deal of activity, yet don’t stress, research shows that the more exercise you can deal with, the faster you’ll dispose of your agony and different side effects.
Can you slow down degenerative disc disease?
When pain is sufficiently controlled the main thing patients can do is stay dynamic. Activities do not just save what usefulness exists. they are the absolute most ideal method of recuperating the back.
Exercise builds the progression of blood and oxygen and different supplements to the back and circles, in this way keeping them hydrated and as flexible as could really be expected. Also, Exercise can improve one’s feeling of prosperity by advancing the arrival of endorphins, a characteristic torment reliever and stress reducer
I’m Shafey. An avid runner since 2012. I am one of few people who like doing cardio instead of muscle building. I love spending time on treadmills, tracks, pavements, or any surface rather than exercising with dumbles.
With all those years of experience and spending the whole night reading blogs and researching different concepts of running. Learned a lot about new tips and tricks. In those years tried different running shoes (from $ to $$$). I got a great knowledge that can be shared with others. I may not be a professional running coach but YES an experienced runner who can guide right to beginners.✌️✌️