Buying the right shoes for plantar fasciitis can help alleviate the painful symptoms of this condition.
About Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis results from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue which runs across the bottom of the feet from ball to heel. The inflammation is painful, particularly in the morning when you first climb out of bed and place your feet on the floor. It's especially noticeable in the heel of the foot, which is why the condition is commonly known as heel spurs. However, sufferers will also notice they feel pain after long periods of inactivity, such as sitting at a desk or riding in a car. This results from muscles tightening from lack of use and stretching. People who have high arches, flat feet, tight calf muscles and tensed muscles are at greater risk of suffering from this condition. You may also find yourself at risk if you wear shoes with poor support, are pregnant or obese. The best shoes for plantar fasciitis will help alleviate some of the pain while supplying you with adequate support.
Good Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
If you suffer from heel pain, it's best to check with your doctor or podiatrist for footwear recommendations. It's important to wear shoes that give your feet the right amount of support in order to avoid increasing pain. Continuing to wear the wrong shoes can worsen the condition. You'll find suitable footwear options for plantar fasciitis sufferers at these retailers:
- The Healthy Shoe Store offers plenty of options in shoes for problem feet. For men, the company carries boat shoes, dress shoes, sandals, sneakers, clogs and more. Women can choose among fashionable options such as wedge shoes, clogs, sneakers, Mary Janes and a variety of lace-ups.
- The Orthaheel Tide Thong Sandals available at FootSmart provide a flattering warm weather option. If you thought all orthotic shoes were clunky and unattractive, this sandal should change your mind. A great selection of feminine colors makes this thong a perfect choice for women who want to treat heel pain. A built-in orthotic helps to realign feet and relieve pain. This retailer offers a wide selection of shoes that will help plantar fasciitis pain, for both men and women. Most styles don't look anything like orthopedic shoes, leaving you the only one who's wise to their health benefits.
- Amazon.com also carries shoes for men and women who suffer from heel pain. In general, Amazon's prices tend to be lower than specialty shops, but you have to make sure you purchase the correct size in order to avoid return hassles.
Arch Supports
Some of the shoes recommended for plantar fasciitis can be quite pricey. You may want to try a less expensive option first before spending a lot of money on shoes that may or may not help with your pain. Wearing arch supports, which you place into your shoes, is one way you can try to alleviate your heel pain. Ask your doctor for recommendations, but if you buy online, be sure to find a retailer who offers user reviews. This way, you can get an idea how well the supports work before purchasing them.
Successful Shopping
Any shoe you shop for to help relieve plantar fasciitis pain should put function first, fashion second. With so many stylish options, today's heel pain sufferer needn't look as if she's wearing orthotic shoes. Besides stretching exercises your doctor may suggest, the right shoe will go a long way toward helping you relieve pain, allowing you to feel better.
