Online Shoe Shopping: Can It Be Beneficial For Patients?

For many patients, online shoe shopping can be easier than going to a retail store.

Two of my favorite sites are www.zappos.com and www.endless.com. I especially like these sites because they offer free shipping both ways, deliver the shoes within two days to one week and credit card reimbursements are easy and painless.

Searching for shoes by style, size, color, price, width and even orthotic compatibility allows for comprehensive browsing and ease of purchase. I have recommended these sites for patients with bunions, hammertoes, wide feet and narrow feet. Patients can sometimes be apprehensive about buying shoes online but with a quick tutorial, fast delivery and free return shipping, there is really no downside.

I have also used these sites to find extra-depth shoes for patients. Unlike other durable medical equipment regional carrier (DMERC) sites that take forever with shipments and charge a restocking fee for returns, these sites are fast and easy to use. Patients can order extra-depth brands like Propet® (Propet USA), Drew® (Drew Shoe Corp.) and Aravon® (new Balance) from www.zappos.com and www.endless.com. The selection of styles, sizes and choices cannot be beat.