It only takes one particularly uncomfortable flare-up of heel and foot pain to understand the importance of proper footwear: The best shoes for plantar fasciitis can help relieve tension in your feet and hopefully avoid those days. frustrating in the first place. We spoke with physiotherapists and podiatrists to help us find the right shoes for anyone facing this condition.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Before discussing the causes of Plantar Fasciitis, it is helpful to first think about the anatomy of the foot region. The plantar fascia is a fascial band or ligament that extends from the bottom of the calcaneus (or heel bone) to the base of the toes, Susan Eby, PT, MS, owner of Eby Physical Therapy in New York, tells SELF. It helps support the long arch of the foot and absorbs shock while you walk and run.
Repeated stress on the plantar fascia can cause damage or small tears that can lead to inflammation. Plantar fasciitis often feels like a shooting or aching pain in the ball of the foot, usually near the heel, that tends to be more intense in the morning or after you haven’t been on your feet for a while. Some factors that can make plantar fasciitis worse include tight calf muscleshigh-impact, repetitive activities like running, rapid increases in weight-bearing activity, prolonged standing or walking, and flat foot or very high arches. Your choice of shoes can also be an aggravating factor, whether you run, walkor standing for long periods of time.
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The best shoes for plantar fasciitis
Below, you’ll find expert-recommended shoes (including sneakers, dress shoes, sandals, and slippers) with features suitable for plantar fasciitis sufferers, like extra cushioning, sturdy arch support footbed and well-fitting insoles, as well as recommendations for removable insoles to make any pair more comfortable. But don’t worry, we’re not talking about stereotypical, bulky orthopedic shoes (although those certainly do the job). Instead, we’ve rounded up stylish options from brands like Teva, Hoka One One, Clarks, Oofos, New Balance, and Superfeet, all from retailers like Amazon, Nordstrom, REI, and more.
Hoka Shoes to be deep heel counters and cloud-like cushioning that feels like a beautiful hug around your feet. This snug, soft cut makes it one of the best walking shoes for people suffering from plantar fasciitis. Carla Gamez, DPM, a podiatrist at the Illinois Bone & Joint Institute (IBJI), recommends the Clifton because of its responsive midsole, which, despite its heavier cushion, helps you move forward when you walk. The latest version, the Clifton 9helped ease the SELF editor-in-chief’s plantar fasciitis pain and secured her place as her go-to sneaker.