Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot problem that can cause severe pain and discomfort in the heels during walking or standing for long periods. Often with rising out of bed in the morning the pain is the worst.

One of the most effective ways to alleviate this condition is by wearing shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning. 

Best shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Using a good quality orthotic inside your shoes is essential to provide the necessary support to your feet when dealing with heel pain. Orthotics are custom-made insoles that are designed to support the arch of the foot and reduce the strain and stress on the plantar fascia. They are often prescribed by podiatrists and can be used to manage a wide range of foot problems, including plantar fasciitis and metatarsalgia.

Our new Green Steps shoes provide excellent cushioning and stability, making them a great choice for people with plantar fasciitis or metatarsalgia. They feature a surcease foam cushioning system that helps to absorb shock and reduce pressure on the feet.

Our shoes have an in-built orthotic arch support, which helps to reduce stress on the feet and alleviate pain and discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis and metatarsalgia. They are also comfortable and can be worn every day for work, walking, or even long hikes.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a condition that occurs when the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed. This inflammation can cause pain and discomfort in the heel area, often described as a sharp, stabbing sensation. The condition is also known as heel pain, heel spur or policeman’s heel.

There are several causes of plantar fasciitis, including overuse, poor foot mechanics, and obesity. Some people are also genetically predisposed to the condition. It is common in runners, dancers, and other athletes who put a lot of stress on their feet. It is also more common in people who wear shoes with inadequate support or who stand for long periods.

Diagnosis of plantar fasciitis usually involves a physical examination of the foot and ankle, along with a discussion of symptoms and medical history. X-rays or other imaging tests may be ordered to rule out other conditions that could be causing the pain.

Treating Plantar Fasciitis with orthotic shoes

The treatment of plantar fasciitis depends on the severity of the condition. Most cases can be managed conservatively with a combination of rest, ice, stretching exercises, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help strengthen the foot and ankle muscles and improve flexibility.

In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to release the tension in the plantar fascia.

Orthotic shoes can be very effective in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. These shoes are designed to support the arch of the foot and distribute pressure evenly across the foot, reducing stress on the plantar fascia. 

Wearing appropriate footwear is very important for managing plantar fasciitis. Shoes with good arch support, cushioning, and a sturdy heel counter can help reduce stress on the plantar fascia.

Research has been done on various treatments for plantar fasciitis. A review of several studies found that stretching exercises, orthotic shoes, and shockwave therapy were effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with plantar fasciitis. Other studies have shown that corticosteroid injections can provide short-term relief, but the long-term benefits are unclear.

In conclusion, plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that can cause significant pain and discomfort. Treatment options range from conservative measures such as rest, ice, and stretching exercises, to more aggressive treatments such as corticosteroid injections or surgery. Orthotic insoles and appropriate footwear can also be effective in managing the condition. It is important to seek treatment early to prevent the condition from worsening and causing long-term damage.

Exercises for plantar fasciitis:

When it comes to exercises for plantar fasciitis, stretching is key. Here are some recommended exercises:

1. Calf stretch: Stand with your hands against a wall and your feet shoulder-width apart. Step one foot back and keep it straight. Lean forward until you feel a stretch in your calf. Hold for 15-30 seconds, then switch legs.
2. Plantar fascia stretch: Sit down with one leg crossed over the other. Pull your toes back toward your shin until you feel a stretch in your arch. Hold for 15-30 seconds, then switch legs.
3. Toe curls: Sit in a chair and place a towel on the floor in front of you. Use your toes to scrunch up the towel and pull it toward you. Repeat for 10-15 reps.
4. Toe extension: Sit in a chair and place a resistance band around the ball of your foot. Hold the ends of the band with your hands and slowly point your foot away from you. Repeat for 10-15 reps.
5. Ankle circles: Sit in a chair and lift one foot off the ground. Slowly rotate your ankle in a circle, first clockwise and then counterclockwise. Repeat for 10-15 reps, then switch legs.

In addition to these exercises, it’s important to wear supportive shoes and avoid high-impact activities that can exacerbate the condition. Incorporating orthotic insoles can also be helpful in reducing stress on the plantar fascia.

Other causes of heel pain:

Bursitis is a condition that occurs when the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion and lubricate joints, become inflamed. This can cause pain and swelling in the affected area, including the heel. Bursitis can occur in any joint, but is most commonly seen in the heel, knee, and elbow.

Achilles tendonitis is a condition that occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone, becomes inflamed. This can cause pain and stiffness in the back of the heel, and can make it difficult to walk or participate in physical activities.

Other conditions that can cause heel pain include stress fractures, nerve entrapment, and arthritis.