Walking shoes for plantar fasciitis

Fasciitis is a medical term used for inflammation of a fascia, a layer of fibrous tissue that surrounds different muscles, group of muscles, blood vessels as well as nerves. In case of plantar fasciitis inflammation affects the plantar fascia, the fibrous band that runs at the bottom of the heel. The condition typically leads to pain (most commonly throbbing pain) which is quite intensive, especially while walking or running. This medical issue is frequent among athletes such as runners although it also affects obese individuals and sometimes pregnant women. Plantar fasciitis can additionally develop as a result of wearing ill-fitting shoes (shoes that do not support the feet adequately). Fortunately, the condition is not so severe and can be successfully treated.

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

Individuals suffering from plantar fasciitis do not have to abstain from walking. The best thing they can do is to walk gently without straining the affected heel. It is good to stay away from hard surfaces and chose properly cushioned shoes. As a matter of fact there are specially designed walking shoes for individuals suffering from plantar fasciitis. Old and worn out shoes should be replaced with new and more comfortable ones. Apart from special shoes there is also a possibility to use old shoes but only if these are combined with heel pads and cushions.

If the pain becomes unbearable, doctors usually prescribe some pain relieving medications or anti-inflammatory drugs. Additional treatment modality is physical therapy which comprises specific plantar fasciitis exercises.

Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

The cornerstone of plantar fasciitis treatment is properly fitting shoes. Many regular shoes do not have a cushioning at the very center of the foot. This is why walking shoes for plantar fasciitis always contain an arch at the middle of the sole. The arch together with a well supported mechanism is essential for relieving pain experienced while walking. The pain alleviates thanks to reduction of pressure on the feet. This way, inflammation gradually subsides and the affected fascia eventually heals.

Plantar fasciitis shoes are flexible and quite stable. Their sole is soft. They are made in such a way to align the foot in a neutral position. Some of them can be used for walking only, while other can be worn while walking and running. Finally, these shoes are available in all sizes.

Most patients feel quite a relief with motion controlled shoes specially designed for plantar fasciitis sufferers. There are also slippers made for this purpose. No matter what type of plantar fasciitis shoes one is wearing, the most important thing is that they support the foot and reduce pressure on the inflamed part, allowing the affected part of the foot to heal completely.