The Foot Pain Price Tag: Are Cheap Shoes Worth the Long-Term Cost?

Foot pain isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a hidden expense that can affect everything from your wallet to your well-being. That’s why we surveyed 500 Americans struggling with foot pain to uncover the real cost behind this all-too-common issue.

We also reached out to podiatrists for their take on why investing in quality footwear may be the smarter financial choice in the long run. The results might surprise you—and change how you think about your shoe budget.

Understanding Foot Pain in America

Foot pain is a reality for 81% of Americans, highlighting just how widespread the issue is. For many, it’s not just an occasional discomfort but a persistent problem that impacts daily life. Our survey revealed that, on average, individuals have endured foot pain for 6.3 years, with two years being the most commonly reported timeframe.

When asked about their foot pain, respondents cited these conditions most often:

• General Pain (51%)
• Arthritis (31%)
• Plantar Fasciitis (25%)
• Flat Feet (23%)
• Bunions (16%)
• Other Issues—Including Neuropathy, Gout, and Heel Spurs (13%)
• Sprained or Broken Foot (9%)
• Sprained or Broken Toe (6%)

From common conditions to more specific issues, foot pain takes a toll on people’s quality of life—often persisting for years without relief.

Cheap Shoes, Expensive Pain: The True Cost of Skimping on Footwear

Cheap shoes may save you a few dollars today, but they can lead to costly consequences later on. Those with foot pain typically purchase 2-3 pairs of shoes each year, spending $235.27 annually or about $78 per pair. Yet, this amount barely scratches the surface of the costs incurred from foot pain.

The average co-pay for doctor visits is $55, and with most people seeing a doctor for foot pain twice a year, that’s an extra $110 per year. Additionally, 36% of respondents report spending an average of $178.49 on custom orthotics while 25% undergo physical therapy, with 10 sessions per year and an average cost of $735 annually.

Foot pain also results in lost wages, with 24% of people missing work due to their condition. That’s an average of $914 in lost income each year.

Altogether, the total annual foot pain cost is $773.99 per person. Skimping on footwear may save money upfront, but it costs far more in the long run.

The Lifetime Cost of Foot Pain

Over the years, the cost of dealing with foot pain can really add up. With an average annual expense of $773.99, the total over 6.3 years reaches $4,876.14. This includes everything from doctor visits and physical therapy to custom orthotics and lost wages. The price of living with foot pain is high, and it’s often far more than most people expect.

Podiatrists Explain: How Cheap Shoes Can Lead to Costly Pain

Podiatrists agree: when it comes to footwear, you often get what you pay for. When you choose cheap shoes, you may be trading immediate savings for future costs.

We gathered insights from two podiatrists to help you shop shoes that properly support your feet. Let’s take a look at their recommendations.

Dr. Bruce Pinker’s Recommendations

“Purchasing inexpensive footwear that, often, is poorly constructed, can lead to foot issues due to low-quality materials that do not provide shock absorption or cushioning.

“Low-quality footwear may also lack proper traction or grip on the outsole which can lead to slippage and accidents/injury.

“Higher quality footwear has many benefits, such as shock absorption, protection, stability, and possible prevention of injury… the benefits pay off in the future by promoting good foot health.

Tips for buying footwear:

• “Try on shoes in the afternoon if your feet have a tendency to swell, therefore fitting shoes to your largest possible size”
• “Be mindful of sock selection as wearing an improper sock can greatly affect the way a shoe fits”
• “Always choose footwear that is specific to the intended activity”

Dr. Shine John’s Recommendations

“The old saying is that you get what you pay for. Although cheaper shoes may look well constructed, they are often fabricated using cheaper materials that don't last very long. These shoes often can lead to stresses on the foot which can cause, or not help alleviate foot issues.

“I feel it's always important to invest in better shoes from the beginning. You will likely get much more life out of it, and much less problems related to it. Of course, the proper fit and support of the shoe is just as important as the dollars spent on them.

"Be prepared for foot issues, due to lack of support, improper fit, and inadequate cushioning and offloading of pressure areas. This can lead to the start of foot pain, can cause chronic foot pain, creation of foot deformities, and potential worsening or aggravation of existing foot deformities.

"It pays to do your research before purchasing. I would consult a trusted foot doctor for suggestions and recommendations. Often, it is worth spending the extra money on quality, reputable shoe brands. I am also a firm believer that 'expensive' shoes are not the equivalent of appropriate shoes for your foot type. It’s more important to purchase shoes that are appropriate for your feet, AND quality fabricated."

FAQs

What does foot pain cost?

Foot pain costs more than just comfort—it limits mobility, affects quality of life, and weighs on emotions. Add to that an average annual expense of $773.99 per person, as our survey revealed, and the true impact of foot pain becomes undeniable.

How do you know if foot pain is serious?

Foot pain may be serious if it’s persistent, disrupts your daily life, or is accompanied by symptoms like swelling, bruising, redness, or warmth. Sudden, sharp pain or visible changes in the foot’s shape could signal an acute injury or underlying condition. If the pain doesn’t improve with rest, footwear changes, or basic care, it’s time to seek professional evaluation.

What is the number one cause of foot pain?

The number one cause of foot pain is overuse, which puts excessive strain on muscles, ligaments, and joints. Activities like prolonged standing, walking, or high-impact exercises can lead to common issues like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, or stress fractures. Wearing unsupportive footwear only adds to the problem—making proper support essential for keeping foot pain at bay.

Methodology and Sources

To uncover the cost of foot pain, KURU Footwear surveyed 500 Americans aged 18 and older who currently experience it. Using the data, we calculated averages across various expenses to determine both annual and lifetime costs. Here’s how:

• Doctor’s Visits. Respondents reported an average of two visits per year, with a typical co-pay of $55, resulting in an annual average of $110.
• Orthotics. While 36% of respondents used orthotics, these devices are typically replaced every 2.5 years. This brings the annual cost to $71.40, which, when weighted across all respondents, equals $25.70.
• Physical Therapy. Among respondents, 25% attended an average of 10 physical therapy sessions per year at $73.46 each, totaling $734.60 annually. Weighted across all respondents, this equals $183.65.
• Footwear. The average annual expense for footwear was calculated at $235.27.
• Lost Wages. About 24% of respondents reported lost wages averaging $914.03 annually, which, when weighted across all respondents, equals $219.37.

Adding together these costs—doctor’s visits ($110), orthotics ($25.70), physical therapy ($183.65), footwear ($235.27), and lost wages ($219.37)—brings the annual average cost of foot pain to $773.99.

To calculate the lifetime cost, we multiplied the annual expense by the average duration of foot pain (6.3 years), arriving at a lifetime total of $4,876.14.

About Us

At KURU, we’re on a mission to help you Heel Better™ with footwear technology designed to relieve foot pain, so you can live a life you love. Since launching our innovative technology in 2008, we’ve sold over 2 million pairs and received more than 37,000 five-star reviews from thousands of customers who tell us their KURU shoes helped them with foot pain conditions (such as plantar fasciitis) and got them back to doing what they love.

For all media inquiries, please contact us at pr@kurufootwear.com.