Plantar fasciitis shoes for fast relief

If your plantar fascia is inflamed or demonstrates degenerative changes you have a condition known as plantar fasciitis. A plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that starts at the heel bone and extends forward along the sole of the foot. A small bony protrusion or spur can develop on the heel bone in severe cases of the disease. Most of the pain is felt underneath the heel and many sufferers have difficulty flexing their foot and toes upwards at the ankle joint.

It is estimated that 10% of Americans will be affected in their lifetime. People with a higher body mass index, adults over 40 years of age, people with weight bearing occupations or occupations that require standing for long periods of time, pregnant women and athletes (particularly dancers and long distance runners) tend to have a higher incidence of the disease. The condition is occasionally referred to as 'runners heel' or 'policeman's heel." Research also shows that poorly designed shoes lacking in arch support and high heels can compound the problem.  Plantar fasciitis shoes (see section below) are designed to address this problem.

Your plantar fascia acts like a shock absorber and supports the arch in the foot.  But as a result of walking on hard surfaces and using poorly designed footwear can adversely affect the weight distribution on the foot, causing tension in the fascia which eventually develops small tears and becomes inflamed.  Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain.

If you suspect plantar fasciitis it makes sense to see a podiatrist or health professional for a definite diagnosis as it is often confused with ball of the foot pain. It makes sense to seek treatment as the condition may also cause misalignment in your body posture resulting in knee, hip and back pain. 

Therapy normally takes the form of rest, the use of anti-inflammation medications, topical application of corticosteroids, massage and physical therapy, calf and foot splints to help stretch the fascia, and the use of orthotic foot supports and plantar fasciitis shoes (orthotic shoes) specifically designed to bring relief for the condition. 

There is significant evidence that the use of orthotics whether customized or off the shelf, are effective for plantar fasciitis resulting in reduced pain and increased functionality.  Plantar fasciitis orthotics are designed to help distribute pressure to your feet more evenly, and by cupping the heel, help avoid pronation and poor foot alignment.

The most important feature to look out for when considering custom designed plantar fasciitis shoes is good arch support. The insoles should be designed with a shock absorbing material (e.g. a cushioned sole) and enable even weight distribution across the entire foot, both side-ways and length-ways.

There are a range of different brands offering shoes for plantar fasciitis and the available styles are growing in number. Have a look at the New Balance and Orthaheel range for examples of an effective planar fasciitis shoe and look out for the seal of acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). Many brands also offer running shoes for plantar fasciitis.

If you want to convert your existing shoes rather than buying new pair, consider purchasing an orthotic insole.  These are also designed to provide arch support, allow for property foot alignment and weight distribution.  Brands such as Walkfit are very popular.