Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spurs

Plantar fasciitis and bone spurs in feet are both painful foot conditions. Pain is not the only thing that is common between these two foot conditions, one must know that both of these conditions can be caused due to wearing ill-fitting footwear. It is therefore, extremely important that we stop looking at shoes as a fashion accessory and buy shoes that provide proper arch support, instead of donning fashionable shoes that put a lot of stress on the heel bone. In this article, we will find out why one may suffer from plantar fasciitis or bone spurs in heel due to wearing ill-fitting footwear along with tips on buying the right type of shoes that may help to prevent plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.

Can Poorly-fitted Shoes Cause Heel Spurs and Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is associated with the inflammation of plantar fascia. Plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that stretches along the sole of the foot. Plantar fascia not only provides support to the arch, it also facilitates shock absorption. Usually, over-stretching of this ligament occurs as a result of indulging in strenuous physical activities that involve the feet. One of the most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis is heel pain. The pain is felt the most when one lands the foot on the ground in the morning. Since plantar fascia gets tightened while one is asleep, the sudden movement causes stretching of the ligament as one takes the first few steps.

While structural foot abnormalities such as high arches or fallen arches can make one more susceptible to plantar fasciitis, wearing old worn-out shoes can also cause stress to the plantar fascia. Wearing high-heeled shoes can also stretch the ligament beyond the tolerable limits and cause inflammation. Those suffering from plantar fasciitis are also at an increased risk of developing heel spurs. Heel spurs, also known as osteophytes, are abnormal bony outgrowths that may develop along the edges of the heel bone. Heel spurs form when the plantar fascia starts pulling at the heel bone or gets torn due to excessive stress. The formation of a bony protrusion is the body's way of adjusting to the pulling forces. If the heel spurs start impinging on any of the surrounding nerves or the tissues, one is likely to suffer from pain. Since wearing ill-fitting footwear may cause both of these painful foot conditions, it is extremely important that one buys the best quality plantar fasciitis shoes that would prevent any further inflammation.

Shoes for Providing Relief from Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spurs

Plantar fasciitis and heel spurs surely affect one's ability to move about freely. So, make sure that the heel bone or other structures in the feet are not subject to excessive stress. A person who has been diagnosed with these conditions must always wear shoes that are specifically designed for providing relief from plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. This is the best way to support the arch of the foot. These days, various footwear manufacturers have come up with shoes that not only provide support to the arch, but also have cushioned padding so as to facilitate proper shock absorption. New Balance, Earth, Chaco, Birkenstock, Mephisto and Dansko are some of the brands that offer such supportive shoes for people suffering from plantar fasciitis or heel spurs. Nowadays, one can easily get hold of walking shoes, running shoes or even dress shoes that are specially designed for people diagnosed with plantar fasciitis or heel spurs.

While buying shoes for yourself, make sure that you don't make the decision on the visual appeal of the shoes. Buy shoes that not only fit you well, but also have other added features enabling improved arch support. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, you could even buy good quality orthotic shoe inserts. It is also essential that any structural foot abnormality one may be suffering from is considered while one goes shopping for footwear. One can check out custom-made orthopedic shoes that are specifically designed as per one's size. Features such as removable heel pads, cushioning and wide toe boxes can also help to prevent other foot problems such as corns, calluses or bunions. There is a great need to provide support to all parts of the foot. The best footwear is the one that not only provides support to the arch, but also supports the heel and ball of the foot.

While donning supportive shoes for plantar fasciitis and heel spur relief would definitely make you feel better, it's essential that your feet don't reel under your body's weight. Feet carry our entire weight throughout the day, so, make sure that you keep a tab on your body weight as well.