Getting the Best Sneakers for Plantar Fasciitis

Enduring a burst of pain in the heel whenever you stand up and put pressure on your foot? Is the heel so painful you can barely walk two steps forward, let alone dash around the block? You may have plantar fasciitis, an irritation and swelling of the ligament on the base of the foot that supports the bones of the foot. For runners, the condition can come from running too much and may be aggravated further by poorly constructed sneakers. For others, it can be a weight-related issue. In both instances, the foot is essentially overwhelmed by the appropriate stress, and overstretches in response, causing tears and inflammation in the plantar fasciitis.

If you indeed have plantar fasciitis, the rehab treatment may take a full year, possibly involving physical therapy, cortisone injections, etc. The question then is how do you get around comfortably in the meantime without the excruciating pain shooting up from your affected foot with every step you take? The best bet would be to get a pair of sneakers designed specifically to accommodate plantar fasciitis and hopefully down the road, help prevent a recurrence of this annoying and painful condition.

For plantar fasciitis, the two most important things to consider in selecting the right sneaker are the construction and fit. To be effective in helping to reduce the pain and swelling in the heel and arch, the sneaker must be provide shock absorption in the heel, good support in the heel and along the arch, and promote proper foot position. The fit should not be snug, and should instead provide a roomy toe box to help reduce the chance of more foot complaints like bunions occurring. When laced up, you should feel no pressure points on any part of the foot.

Among the footwear brands that offer specific features in their sneakers to address plantar fasciitis are Asics, New Balance, and Saucony. Visit these companies online to search for the right fit for you and your plantar fasciitis. Then shop around either on the Internet, where you may find a great sale price, or at a specialty running store for their expertise and to try on a pair or two. Getting the best shoes for plantar fasciitis may be time-intensive process, but it is a necessary one if you want to experience the relief you need from this awful condition.