Welcome to our guide for choosing Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. About 1 in 10 people will experience plantar fasciitis at one point in their lifetime. This condition can negatively affect your quality of life if left untreated.
The plantar fascia runs along the bottom of your foot to connect your heel to your toes. This thick band of tissue creates the arch of your foot. It helps with shock absorption and supports you when you walk.
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Certain Sports and Jobs Can Contribute to Developing Plantar Fasciits
When your plantar fascia becomes irritated, it’s called plantar fasciitis. This can happen when you put too much repetitive pressure on your feet. This happens when you walk, run, or play another sport regularly. Nurses, teachers, and other professionals stand on hard surfaces are at risk.
If you have plantar fasciitis, you may notice stabbing pain at the bottom of your foot. Sometimes, it's a dull, constant ache. This pain usually happens first thing in the morning or after exercise. A supportive shoe can help reduce the pain plantar fasciitis causes.
Different Types of Plantar Fasciitis Shoes
Important Features in Choosing the Right Shoe
As a nurse, I understand the importance of proper footwear. There are certain qualities a shoe should have to promote pain-relief. Shoes for plantar fasciitis focus on providing supportive and cushioning. This will help stabilize the foot and take the pressure off your paint points. It also gives your plantar fascia time to rest.
Make sure your shoes for plantar fasciitis have these features:
Proper footwear can help improve your mobility while decreasing your pain . You should choose shoes created with plantar fasciitis in mind.
What Type of Shoes to Avoid
You should avoid shoes that aren’t made for orthotic inserts. Some people may need orthotics to relieve the tension and pain points. Most shoes aren’t made to accommodate these inserts. Always check to make sure the shoes you’re buying will be compatible.
Try to avoid shoes that are:
If your shoes are worn out, you should replace them. As you wear your shoes, the supportive features wear away with time. If you notice your shoes are looking worn out, it’s time for a new pair.
What are Podiatrists Saying About Footwear for Plantar Fasciitis?
Podiatrists are medical professionals that focus on managing feet, ankle, and leg conditions. They have studied the foot and have a deep understanding of conditions like plantar fasciitis.
So what do the leading experts have to say about plantar fasciitis? Dr. Bruce Pinker is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon. He highlighted important features to consider when choosing a shoe for plantar fasciitis.
“For plantar fasciitis, shoes should have adequate arch support, often built into the insole. This can help support the plantar fascia ligaments and help reduce tension. There should also be appropriate cushioning and shock absorption, usually found in the midsole region, which aids in ambulation. The heel counter should be firm to hold the heel in place and provide stability.”
Dr. Pinker had different recommendations for people with severe plantar fasciitis. This population may need extra support as their pain worsens.
“Often, in cases of severe plantar fasciitis, many patients benefit from custom-made orthotics. These can be prescribed in many different ways to address the specific needs of the patient. Custom-made orthotics often last for at least a few years and can greatly enhance one's ambulation.”
Mauricio Garcia is an orthopedic expert. He helps design and develop footwear based on the latest medical evidence. Dr. Garcia creates footwear features tailored to specific foot conditions. Dr. Garcia focused on why the qualities of a shoe help manage plantar fasciitis.
“Shoes for plantar fasciitis should have excellent arch support to provide stability and reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Also, good motion control helps in stabilizing the foot and preventing overpronation, which is kind of igniting fuel for plantar fasciitis. Absorbing shock and minimizing the impact on the heel and arch is also key, hence cushioning plays a big role. Finally, to help alleviate pressure points and enhance overall comfort, it’s desirable that the shoes have a proper fit, with a wide toe box and supportive heel counter.”
Dr. Garcia goes on to explain why these features are important.
“Each one of those features helps alleviate symptoms and reduce/prevent extra stress in a tissue already inflamed, minimizing further damage and creating a better healing environment.”
As soon as your foot hits the ground, your shoe is working to support your plantar fasciitis. These features will help you stay mobile and pain-free for longer. Make sure your shoe is helping you maintain your quality of life.
Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
I always recommend trustworthy brands to my patients. Now that you understand what to look for in a shoe, let’s go over some shoes that have those features. These shoes have been hand-picked by a podiatrist to help manage plantar fasciitis.
Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
1. Hoka Bondi 8 - Running Shoe
Men's
Women's
Not only are these running shoes functional, but they’re also fashion-forward. They come in a range of colors, including bright and neutral palettes.
The Hoka Bondi 8 shoes come with the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance. They’re made of lightweight foam for increased cushion. Their billowed, rear crash pad help swing you into every step to keep you moving.
The patented bucket seat midsole provides superior support with every stride. This shoe has deep traction on the outsole that grips rough terrain when you’re running outside. This helps increase stability when you’re on the move.
Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
2. Orthofeet Men’s Comfort Orthopedic Sneaker - Walking Shoe
These walking shoes are built for comfort. Their wide toe box, cushioned heel, and stretchable upper portion leave enough room for your foot to feel supported without pain points.
The extra pad foaming on the back with the heel strap stabilizes your ankle while you walk. The arch support provides targeted reinforcement to your plantar fascia. All these features work together to keep you comfortable while you're on your feet.
3. Orthofeet Women's Orthopedic Coral Shoe - Walking Shoe
These shoes come in 8 different colors. They're loaded with features.
Their anatomical arch support and cushioned heel helps with shock absorption while walking. This shoe comes with an orthotic insert and a sole booster to provide extra support.
The toe box on this shoe is customizable. It ranges from narrow to tall and wide. So rest assured, you’re able to get a fit that meets your unique foot size.
Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis With Wide Toe Box
4. FitVille Plantar Fasciitis Shoes - Wide Toe Box
A wide toe box gives your toes the space they need to spread out comfortably. This can also help with balance and stability.
These sleek slip-on shoes have a removable memory foam insert with extra arch support. This can lower your pain by reducing the pressure on your plantar fascia while you walk. Because the insert is removable, you can replace it with a custom orthotic.
The heel has a double layer of foam padding to help stabilize your ankle when you walk. These shoes come in wide sizes and have a wide-toe box. You don’t have to worry about pinched toes with the FitVille shoes.
Best Slip-on Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
5. OrthoComfoot Slip-On Loafers
Men's
Women's
Looking for a pair of comfortable, stylish slip-ons? These shoes may be the most stylish pair on my list. You would never guess they were created with plantar fasciitis in mind.
These shoes come with orthopedic inserts with three layers for exceptional shock absorption. The massaging gel layer of the insert helps cushion your foot and prevents fatigue.
Best Clogs for Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain
6. Dansko Women's Professional Clog
This pair of shoes may be the most supportive one on this list. This pair has rigid arch support that helps take the pressure off of your plantar fascia.
The rocker bottom keeps you moving smoothly by propelling your foot forward with minimal effort. The foam foot bed helps cushion your foot while you’re walking.
Best Travel Sneakers for Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain
7. Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit
Men's
Women's
No one wants to be in pain when they’re on vacation. This is where these shoes come in.
These athletic loafers have podiatrist-certified arch support to help keep you comfortable when it matters the most. The midsole is lightweight and cushioned. The outsole has added support to help with your form while walking. This makes it easier to explore new places for longer.
Best Nursing Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain
8. Orthofeet Women's Orthopedic Nursing Shoes Talya
This classic nursing shoe has a fluid-repellent formula to keep them pristine well into your 12-hour shift.
Like the other Orthofeet shoes on this list, this one comes with a removable, orthotic insole for more support and comfort. The cushioned heel helps reduce unwanted heel pain. The insole has added arch booster support to carry through on your longest days.
Don’t be caught on a long shift without your Orthofeet Nursing Shoes. You can find a pair here in time to make your next shift pain-free.
Best Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain
9. KuaiLu Recovery Sandals
Men's
Women's
These lightweight, foam sandals keep your feet comfortable in hot weather. The firm design provides support, so your foot can relax more.
The arch support helps your foot relax while helping your form while you walk. This feature provides pain relief by taking the pressure off of your plantar fascia. It does the work for you.
Are you ready for the beach? Not without your Kuailu Recovery Sandals.
Summary
Plantar fasciitis causes stabbing foot pain on the bottom of your foot. It's caused by repetitive pressure on your plantar fascia. Certain shoes can help manage the pain.
According to podiatrists, you should look for a shoe with a wide toe box and support in the heel and arch to lower pain. If your shoes are older, these features may start to wear out. It’s important to stay on top of your footwear and buy new shoes regularly.
