What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis, also called “Policeman’s Heel,” is inflammation of the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes, which is often caused by excessive walking, running, poor footgear, or possibly a jumping injury from landing. This can be an incredibly uncomfortable situation, and at the very least, it makes walking painful or at the very most, impossible – depending on the severity of the condition.
It’s highly common and typically self-diagnosable and self-treatable. Symptoms include sharp pain near the heel, in the sole, and/or in the arch of the foot, along with overall swelling and tenderness. Yet, there’s a way to relieve pain.
What to Look for in Your Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Now let’s talk about shoes. Since plantar fasciitis affects areas in the heel and arch of the foot, there are specific things you’ll want to consider when searching for the best shoes for plantar fasciitis. Here’s what to look for:
Arch and Heel Support
Evidence suggests that when a shoe has great arch and heel support, it helps with plantar fasciitis. That makes sense, right? This is mainly because the affected areas have supportive cushioning and protection. For flat-footed individuals, where their arches create unwanted pressure, having a shoe with strong arch support greatly reduces the pain that flat or fallen arches can cause.
Cushioning in the Midfoot
Changing the foot mechanics can be a long, laborious process. If there is any pain in the heel due to plantar fasciitis, reducing heel impact should be a primary focus. In running, there are three main types of foot strikes: heel, midfoot, and forefoot. There are pros and cons to all three methods, however, the takeaway here is that when heel striking, in running or walking, this pressure can exacerbate plantar fasciitis. So, having a shoe that addresses and encourages midfoot support and striking can help relieve plantar fasciitis issues.
Soft Impact with the Ground
As a general rule, the best shoe for plantar fasciitis is one that can reduce the foot’s impact when making contact with a hard surface. Healthy arches support this minimal impact with the ground, but if you have flat arches or plantar fasciitis, shoes with strong arch support and adequate cushioning make the impact with the ground much more pleasant.
Shoes to Avoid
Any shoe that has minimal stability is a no-go for your plantar fasciitis. Take examples like Vibram FiveFingers, most sandals/flip-flops, and any minimalistic type of shoe. Avoid shoes that have little-to-no arch support, heel support, cushioning for the midfoot, or a rocker-like bottom to reduce impact with the ground.
Stretching Can Help
Before we tell you why our shoes make the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, we thought we’d point out some other methods to relieve pain. Say hello to stretching (and yes, it helps).
It’s suggested that plantar fasciitis could correlate with foot strength. With our lifestyles surrounded by keeping our shoes on throughout much of the day, we often forget the necessity of stretching and using the muscles in our feet and toes. When your hamstrings, shoulders, or neck get tight, what do you do? You most likely stretch them out. Just like these parts of the body, the muscles in our feet not only need to be strengthened but stretched and cared for as well. From towel scrunches to calf stretches and rolling out tight tendons, you should incorporate these movements into your overall foot-health regimen.
SAS Shoes: The Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Prevention only goes so far, and there are times when inserts or a shoe change are the only things that will ultimately help with plantar fasciitis. Whether you’re looking for plantar fasciitis shoes for men, women, or simply the best walking shoes for plantar fasciitis, we have you covered here at SAS Shoes.
With shoes and sandals specially designed to address heel and arch support, we avoid the technology that minimalistic styles often incorporate. With a blend of quality and comfort, we guarantee your feet will feel taken care of as you treat and prevent plantar fasciitis. From insoles for both men and women to the best men’s sandals for plantar fasciitis, we have a variety of options.
Don’t compromise comfort or your foot’s well-being any longer. Visit our store today!