Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis is inflammation caused by excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom surface of the foot, attaching at the bottom of the heel bone and extending to the forefoot. Plantar fasciitis can lead to heel pain, arch pain, and heel spurs.

The excessive stretching of the plantar fascia that leads to inflammation and discomfort can be caused by the following:

Overpronation (flat feet), in which in the arch collapses upon weight bearing
High arches
Sudden increase in physical activity
Excessive weight on the foot due to obesity or pregnancy
Improperly fitting footwear

Overpronation is the leading cause of plantar fasciitis and occurs in the walking process, when a foot arch collapses upon weight bearing, causing the plantar fascia to be stretched away from the heel bone.

Plantar fasciitis is usually felt near the inside of the foot where the heel and arch meet. The pain is often acute first thing in the morning or after a long rest, because while resting the plantar fascia contracts to its original shape. As the day progresses and the plantar fascia continues to stretch, the pain often subsides.

When the cause of plantar fasciitis is overpronation (flat feet), an orthotic with rearfoot posting and longitudinal arch support can be effective in reducing the overpronation and allowing the condition to heal.

When the cause of plantar fasciitis is high arches, cushion the heel to absorb shock, and wear proper footwear to accommodate and comfort the foot.

Other common treatments include stretching, wearing plantar fasciitis night splints, wearing shoes with a cushioned heel to absorb shock, and elevating the heel with the use of a heel cradle or heel cup. Heel cradles and heel cups provide extra comfort, cushion the heel, and reduce the amount of shock and shear forces.

Every time your foot strikes the ground, the plantar fascia stretches. You can reduce the strain and stress on the plantar fascia by avoiding running on hard or uneven ground, losing excess weight, and wearing shoes and orthotics that support your arch.