Have you ever experienced the irritation and discomfort of a pair of Doc Martens that are too stiff or tight, causing pain at the back of your ankles?

If so, you’re not alone. Many people report similar issues, often related to the rigidity of these shoes. Doc Martens are renowned for their robust and durable construction, which is crucial for their longevity.

However, this durability often means that the shoes take additional time—anywhere from a few days to several weeks—to properly conform to your feet. During this break-in period, you might experience pain at the top of your foot and the back of your ankles.

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Once your feet have fully adapted to these high-quality shoes, they become incredibly comfortable, offering a range of sleek designs at affordable prices.

Despite their luxury and comfort, the question remains: how can we alleviate the pain at the back of our ankles while wearing Doc Martens?

Let’s delve into the details:

Why Doc Martens Hurt Back Of Ankles?

There are several potential reasons why Doc Martens might cause discomfort at the back of your ankles.

For example, a new pair of Doc Martens can be quite rigid and stiff initially, which may lead to foot fatigue, swelling, and painful blisters.

Additionally, the fit of the shoes plays a crucial role in your overall comfort. Simply purchasing a pair of Doc Martens and expecting them to fit perfectly isn’t always realistic.

Improperly sized footwear can significantly contribute to ankle pain. Here’s how:

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Wearing shoes that are slightly larger than your usual size can increase friction inside the shoe, causing your heels and ankles to rub against the shoe’s walls and leading to discomfort.

Moreover, the thickness of the socks you wear with your Docs can also impact the fit, potentially making the shoes feel tighter and worsening the friction.

To prevent this issue, give your Docs ample time to break in and ensure you choose a well-fitting size for your feet.

Why is Doc Martens Hurting the Back of Ankles? – Significant Causes & Their Solutions

It’s a common complaint among Doc Marten wearers that their shoes cause pain at the back of their ankles. Let’s examine the major causes and solutions:

Individual Differences in Ankle Anatomy:

Pain at the back of the ankle while wearing Doc Martens can be due to individual differences in ankle anatomy. People have varying ankle shapes, and some may have prominent ankle bones that are more susceptible to friction or swelling with certain shoes.

Advice: In such cases, opt for Doc Martens with additional padding or cushioning that offers comprehensive support. Alternatively, consider using orthotics or extra inserts for added comfort.

The Stress of Improper Lacing of Docs:

Improper lacing can also lead to discomfort at the back of your ankles. For example, lacing your Docs too tightly, especially if they have a platform, can put excessive pressure on your ankles and increase the risk of pain.

Advice: Adjust your lacing so that the fit is snug but not too tight, reducing pressure and alleviating tenderness and foot fatigue.

Prolonged Break-In Periods of Docs:

Doc Martens are known for their lengthy break-in period due to their stiff leather material. This material, while durable, can initially cause discomfort, particularly at the back of your ankles.

However, with time, the leather will mold to the shape of your feet, improving comfort.

Advice: Allow your feet to gradually adapt to the boots by wearing them around the house before venturing out.

Other Quick Ways of Stopping Doc Marten From Hurting Your Ankles:

• Wear thick socks (ensure they fit well, as they can affect the shoe’s fit)
• Use moleskine to protect your feet
• Employ heel-protecting insoles for added support
• Apply blister plasters if blisters occur
• Use anti-blister balm before wearing your Docs
• Get insoles for extra comfort to help alleviate ankle pain
• If these measures don’t help, consult a professional cobbler for a solution.

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Final Words:

Considering all the factors, it’s clear that the discomfort at the back of your ankles while wearing Doc Martens is generally temporary. This pain should diminish as your feet adjust to the shoes. If the pain persists, consulting a podiatrist or medical professional is advisable for personalized recommendations and effective solutions.