I went to a store recommended by a podiatrist. I was assessed and fitted well with good shoes. The foot pain I had disappeared and has remained gone for about 12 years now. I’ll heed a professional who’s been trained in physiology and medicine.
What 30 years in the medical field has taught me is that each and every human being and body is unique. I’m glad you found relief, but please don’t paint with a broad brush that one person‘s solution is everyone’s.
Ooh, I’m so jelly of working in a barn and near horses! Ouch re: your ankle. Bummer about aqua therapy. It was very hard to find for me too. But it sounds like you’re all set for the task, so here’s wishing you good luck! Do post updates for us concrete jungle types.