Shoe Doc helps people make smarter footwear decisions through guided shopping, education, free AI support, and one-on-one consultation options. We connect people dealing with foot conditions, discomfort, or support needs to the right shoes, inserts, and orthotics — without the guesswork.
Whether you're dealing with plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet, neuropathy, or simply standing on your feet all day, Shoe Doc gives you a clear path from uncertainty to a confident purchase. Learn how it works →
No. Shoe Doc provides recommendation-based footwear guidance and does not diagnose medical conditions. We help you find the right shoes, inserts, or orthotics based on your self-reported symptoms, lifestyle, and goals.
If you have a serious medical condition affecting your feet, we recommend consulting your physician or podiatrist. Shoe Doc can still help you find the right footwear once you have a diagnosis.
Absolutely. A consultation is just one of three ways to get help on Shoe Doc. You can also shop directly by condition or activity, or use our free AI guide to get pointed in the right direction — no appointment or account required.
Most people start with the free AI guide or browse directly. Consultations are there for when you have a more complex situation or simply want to talk to a real specialist. See all three paths →
The free AI guide asks you a short series of questions about your symptoms, daily activity, past footwear, and goals. Based on your answers, it narrows down the best category of support, key features to look for, and specific next steps — whether that's a type of shoe, an insert, or a recommendation to book a consultation.
The guide also explains why it's making each recommendation, so you understand the reasoning, not just the result. It takes under 3 minutes and is completely free — no account required.
The AI guide works well for most people with one or two clear symptoms. We recommend booking a consultation if:
- You have multiple foot conditions or overlapping symptoms
- You've tried many shoes before and nothing has worked
- You're unsure whether you need custom orthotics vs. semi-custom or OTC inserts
- You want a real expert to review your full situation and give you a personalized plan
The AI guide itself will flag when it makes sense to escalate to a consultation. Book a session →
A Pedorthist is a certified healthcare professional specifically trained in the fitting, modification, and fabrication of footwear and orthotics to address conditions of the lower limb. Pedorthists are board-certified through the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC).
They specialize in applying footwear science to real foot problems — helping people manage pain, improve function, and find the right support products. When you book a consultation with Shoe Doc, you may be connected with a certified Pedorthist or a trained footwear specialist with equivalent expertise.
No. No referral or prescription is needed to use any Shoe Doc service — including consultations. You can book directly, shop directly, or use the free AI guide without any paperwork or prior authorization.
If your health insurance covers custom orthotics, a prescription from your physician may be required by the insurer. Our specialists can advise on this during your consultation.
Consultation pricing and any applicable purchase credits or discounts are outlined at the time of booking. Policies may vary based on consultation type and current promotions.
Note to team:Update this answer with current consultation pricing, any credit toward purchase, and applicable discount terms before publishing.
Yes. Shoe Doc covers the full footwear spectrum — not just comfort or medical shoes. We help with:
- Comfort shoes — for daily wear, standing, and casual use
- Walking shoes — for regular walkers and those seeking everyday stability
- Running shoes — including stability, neutral, and motion-control options
- Work shoes — for healthcare workers, hospitality, and other on-feet professions
- Orthotics & inserts — OTC, semi-custom, and guidance on when custom is worth it
Yes. Shoe Doc supports direct shopping and checkout. Our catalog is curated by condition and need — so every product you see is there because it fits a specific purpose, not because of brand advertising.
We carry and recommend products from trusted brands including Hoka, Brooks, Dansko, Vionic, Aetrex, Birkenstock, OOFOS, Powerstep, New Balance, Saucony, Orthofeet, and more.
If you're unsure what to buy, start with the free AI guide or book a consultation first — then shop your personalized product list.