Appropriate footwear are the most important element against pain from plantar fasciitis, with every step pressure is constantly put on the plantar fascia. When the plantar fascia ligament becomes overused, overstretched, or inflamed, it causes plantar fasciitis.
If you wear appropriate footwear accompanied with good stretching exercises for plantar fasciitis, plantar fasciitis operation can often be avoided. For some people, wearing supportive shoes, with orthotics if necessary, is the only treatment they need to allow them to continue with daily activities without experiencing pain.
If orthotics such as heel lifts and arch supports are being used, the patient should use them when trying on new shoes. This move will ensure the new footwear will accomodate the orthoses. Using arch supports help to relieve pressure on the fascia ligament and help to absorb the shock.
When the fit of the shoe is critical, the patient should try on shoes late in the day. This is due to the fact that towards the end of every day, our feet become slightly bigger than they are in the morning. People often have one foot slightly wider than the other. If this is true for the patient, new shoes should be selected based on how they fit on the larger foot. Wearing shoes that are too small is likely to aggravate the symptoms of plantar fasciitis.
Shoes should have good arch support and heel cushioning. Shoes that lack support and cushioning add to the stress on the plantar fascia. Footwear with high heels and pointy toes should best be avoided. A low to moderate heel is a better choice. A flimsy, extremely low heel does not supply adequate support.
When trying on shoes, pay attention to the cushioning and support of the arch, heel, and ball of your feet. Shoes should fit well and not cause pressure on any part of the foot. To avoid other foot problems like bunions, choose shoes that have a roomy toe box, the area that surrounds the toes. Watch for seams that may irritate your foot.
Athletic shoes that fit well are a good choice. Athletic shoes should be replaced often due to the fact that they stop cushioning your feet. The athletic shoes' insoles often break down over time of use. You can tell the significant difference in support between old, worn-out athletic shoes and new ones.
Shoes that do not fit securely on the foot should be avoided. Sandals and shoes with open heels are not good choices for people with plantar fasciitis. Barefoot activities should be avoided. Some people find it helpful to put their shoes on immediately upon getting out of bed in the morning.
When shopping for shoes, remember that finding shoes that offer support and cushioning is the highest priority. Podiatrists may recommend certain criterias for footwear that best suits patients with inflammation of the plantar fasciitis.
