Finding the right pair of running shoes to alleviate pain and aid in the healing process can be a difficult task for those dealing with plantar fasciitis.
When selecting a shoe, it is crucial to ensure that it possesses all the essential characteristics to accommodate your foot type adequately. Equally important is selecting a shoe with the appropriate amount of cushioning and arch support.
Comfort
When selecting footwear for plantar fasciitis, comfort is a crucial aspect to take into account. This encompasses various elements such as the shoe’s shape, overall feel, cushioning, and level of support.
In fact, a shoe that is not comfortable can exacerbate symptoms of plantar fasciitis. This is because the muscles and ligaments of your foot become tight, which can trigger flare-ups of the condition.
Wearing shoes that have been specially developed for those with this condition can help ease pain and promote healing.
A few examples of this are rocker bottom shoes, sandals with arch support, and orthotics.
The best footwear for plantar fasciitis has a firm heel cup that provides support, encourages alignment of the foot inside the shoe, and prevents excessive overpronation (the foot rolls inward with each step). Stability is also important because it reduces unnecessary stress on the feet during exercise or walking.
Durability
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain in the heel, especially when you stand for long periods of time. Choosing the right shoes can help relieve this pain.
There are a variety of running shoes on the market that provide good support and comfort for people with plantar fasciitis. However, finding the best ones for you will vary based on your personal preferences, size and activities you plan to use them for.
One shoe that stands out for those with plantar fasciitis is the Hoka One Bondi 7. It features a wide footbed and has been awarded the APMA’s Seal of Acceptance.
Arch Support
Getting a proper shoe that fits you correctly and supports your foot is one of the best ways to avoid plantar fasciitis. It also helps prevent other gait injuries like tendonitis and shin splints that can develop from wearing unsupportive shoes for too long.
Runners should aim for shoes with deep heel cups, contoured footbeds, and removable footbeds to support their feet from flattening and pronation. They should also have shock absorbance and a polyurethane outsole.
These Nike shoes are a good choice for people with plantar fasciitis because they have strong arch support and cushioning that helps with pain relief. They are also incredibly durable and lightweight for all day wear.
If you’re interested in finding a shoe with arch support, there’s an easy way to determine your arches using “The Wet Test,” which involves stepping on a piece of paper wet with water. If the imprint looks skinny, it means you have a high arch, and an oval-like imprint indicates a low arch.
Weight
One of the most important things to look for when you’re buying shoes is weight. It’s the weight of your feet that contributes to plantar fasciitis, so you’ll want to find shoes that are light and comfortable.
A shoe with a rocker bottom can help transfer the load to the forefoot, which is helpful for those with plantar fasciitis, says Langer. It’s also helpful to choose shoes with a wide footbed, as this will help support your feet.
Lastly, you should avoid wearing high heels or old shoes. They don’t provide the arch support your feet need.
Nike has a good selection of sneakers for people with plantar fasciitis, including their popular Shox NZ models that have received great reviews. They’re available in both men’s and women’s sizes, and feature elite cushioning to reduce the impact on your feet during running.
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