Doctor Recommended Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

The Shoes can’t heal plantar fasciitis but can provide you a level of comfort, says Dr. Barbara Bergin certified orthopedic surgeon in Austin, Texas. Unlike typical footwear, the Doctor recommended shoes for plantar fasciitis features with explicitly orthotic insoles for sensitive feet, Light in weight and protective interior.

If you are suffering from plantar Fasciitis, your medic or podiatrist will tell you to secure ortho feet shoes. Do not fret. The value for your money will automatically come out since there is a lot that you are going to gain by securing these types of footwear. The doctor recommends shoes for plantar fasciitis that come with:

a) Anatomically orthotic in-soles for sensitive feet

Unlike typical footwear, plantar fasciitis shoes feature explicitly orthotic insoles for sensitive feet. These insoles reduce the pain related to Achilles tendonitis (pain in the tendons that connect the calf muscles to the heel). They distribute pressure in the feet and offer support to the heel.

Secondly, the insoles reduce the inflammation of the plantar fascia. As a result, the feet will experience a unique kind of pain relief. Alongside that, they also work as a remedy to the effects of overpronation in flat feet.

Lastly, orthotic insoles will help you elevate the intense pain in the lower body that generally comes with Plantar Fasciitis. They help reduce pain in the metatarsal joints, hip joints, backbone, knee joints, and back muscles. The overall result is a relaxed foot that is free from intense pain that comes with Plantar Fasciitis.

b) Lightweight soles

Comfort and support play significant roles when it comes to managing the effects of Plantar Fasciitis. However, have you ever wondered the impact a 1-pound increase in shoe weight can have on your condition?

Well, to make a single stride,  you must use a certain amount of energy. The heavier the shoe, the higher the amount of energy you are going to use. Consequently, any significant increase in power will result in an increase in the endurance level and a decrease in comfort level.

With a heavy shoe, the effects of Plantar Fasciitis will take long to subside or heal. That is why you need to have lightweight soles with ergonomic stride designs that bring the euphoric feeling of “walking on air.”

c) Protective interior

For sustainability in managing the effect of Plantar Fasciitis, you will need something that will protect your feet, and the doctor recommends shoes for plantar fasciitis. The shoes come with excellent arch support that trains the feet.

Shoes for plantar Fasciitis also come in varying widths for excellent size fits. Most variants feature small, medium, and extra-large sizes. However, some custom-made shoes come with narrow margins or extra-extra sizes for precise size fits.

Extra-depth–shoes for plantar fascia come with lasts featuring extra depth to accommodate good-sized insoles for peak comfort. To eliminate pressure on the feet, they come handy with loose fits for gentle contact with the feet.

Finally, the shoes also come with full toe boxes. This feature makes them ideal for preventing hammer-toe deformities and bunions. Additionally, it gives the shoe an extra room where the toes and the feet can move painlessly and comfortably.

If you have diabetes and, at the same time suffering from plantar Fasciitis, then your podiatrist may recommend diabetic neuropathy shoes. These shoes come with a stretchable upper design. The fabrics in the upper part of the shoes stretch to the contours of the foot inside them.

08 best shoes for plantar fasciitis as per the Doctor’s recommendations

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After enormous research and reviewing hundreds of shoes, I concluded the following 08 best shoes for those suffering from plantar fasciitis.

For more info visit: What Shoes To Wear for Plantar Fasciitis?

01. Top Orthopedic Men’s Sneaker

An excellent custom-made plantar fasciitis shoe made exclusively of synthetic fiber. It features a sole ergonomic design that is lightweight for easier maneuverability. Additionally, the shoe comes handy with orthotic insoles that spread the bodyweight along the feet.

One thing that stands out in this model is its anatomical arch support. For high-end efficiency, the manufacturer company has included pillow-like support around its inner wall for durability and comfort.

The doctor recommends shoes for plantar fasciitis should be applicable for pains that result from overpronation, arthritis, diabetes, neuropathy, and flat fleet.

The shoe features a customized fit size that includes extended widths for peak comfort. For men, the shoe comes in varying sizes ranging from medium wide and extra wide.

The shoe model also features soft and pliable uppers consisting of seam-free fabric lining. For maximum comfort and protection against feet sensitivity, the manufacturer has used foam padding.

Qualified medics certify top orthopedic sneakers for men for use. It is a perfect solution in alleviating pressures resulting from sensitive feet, bunions, and hammertoes.

Pros
  • Comes with removable insoles for ease of use
  • Spacious enough to fit both overpronators and neutral feet
  • Comes in customized size fits
Cons
  • May not work best for the under pronators

02. ASICS Women’s Gel Running shoes

Manufactured by ASICS, ASICS Women’s Gel Running Shoes is one of the highly-cherished shoe models on the planet. The shoe features a 100% Synthetic body structure.

To achieve the required level of rigidity, the company uses a high abrasion rubber sole. This makes it the perfect option when looking for something that will protect your feet while at the same time lasting decades without the need for replacement.

ASICS  women use gel for cushioning. The model falls in the category of unique variants in the world that offer an unparalleled comfort of its kind. Besides, the shoe features orthotic foam sock liners for added comfort.

The model also comes handy with trail-specific outsoles. It can be used on both hard, soft, and muddy surfaces. You can count on the shoe for ten unique shades made purposefully to satisfy the sundry of preferences. Overall, a top-rated shoe model will automatically warm your heart.

Pros
  • An impressive and sturdy shoe for use even in half-marathon
  • High arches with sizable width for overpronators
  • Guarantee maximum support especially along the heel area to alleviate heel pain
  • Usable over almost all types of trails without any slight compromise on the outlooks, aesthetic and efficiency
  • Comes in different size fits to satisfy the diverse needs of various plantar fasciitis patients
Cons
  • The sturdy sole comes with groves to improve on the friction. However, the grooves offer unique spaces for mud to lurk in when used on muddy trails.
  • May not fit well on slim feet. If you have high-arched feet, then the only option is to contact the manufacturer for a custom-made shoe.

03. Vionic Women’s Kona Fitness

Vionic has yet again made another release whose aesthetics paint smiles among users worldwide. However, for this model, the company has not used dull colors. Instead, it has gone for a combination of colors to come up with eight varied shades.

For better appeal, the doctor recommends shoes for plantar fasciitis uses mesh design on the upper surface with rubber outsoles. The alternating color of the outsole and the top gives it the outlooks it deserves.

A podiatrist recommends Vionic Women’s Kona model for support against the effects of Plantar Fasciitis.  It features a podiatrist recommended footbed that is contoured and ergonomic to provide maximum stability and slip-free movement. The footbed is removable for ease of use.

The stylish Vionic Women’s Kona is a product of scientific innovation that uses concepts of biomechanics to alleviate and heal symptoms of plantar Fasciitis. It is highly applicable in everyday activity for better results.

Pros
  • It features excellent color combinations and stylish design. You can use the model for purposes not related to medical e.g., for a picnic and long journeys.
  • Breathable mesh top for better air circulation. A perfect option for smelly feet.
  • Flexible removal and orthotic midsole insert make it a better option for flat feet, neutrals, and high-arched.
Cons
  • The mesh top is vulnerable to forces of wear and tear. For durability, you may need to wash the shoe with a sponge-like material. The awash brush will automatically tear off the fabric.
  • The grooves on the underside can easily cake in mud when used in muddy terrain.

04. Vionic Men’s Walker

This list cannot be complete without mentioning the Vionic Men’s Walker. Made by Vionic, this stylish sneaker comes in an appealing suede/leather body and seven dominant shades, including black, Grey Suede, White Navy, White/Navy, Taupe, Grey, and Olive Suede.

In this walker lace-up shoes, VIONIC does all the engineering with victims of plantar Fasciitis in mind. Due to its supportive feature, Vionic men’s walker falls in the bracket of popular models certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).

The shoes feature orthotic footbed designed to provide excellent stability. The active motion system (AMS) technology used in creating the shoe combines the orthotic footbed with elements of flexibility and breathability.

Vionic Men’s walkers also feature cushioned outsoles. It is overly lightweight to reduce the energy used when lifting the feet when walking or running.

The shoe model has a full scope of functionality. You can use it everywhere from the workplace, to the gym, and even for marathons.

Pros
  • Combines both sturdiness and flexibility for durability. The outsoles are flexible while at the same time, rigid.
  • The wide range of sizes fits both the neutral and flat feet. The cushioned collar and tongue, lace-up design, and fabric lining make it an ideal option where comfortability is a significant cause for concern.
Cons
  • The fabric only allows for the use of damp cloth when cleaning. Dirt in the form of grease, mud, or paint may be too daunting to remove without compromising on the quality of the fabric.
  • It comes with a size-down option feature that can be confusing when making your order. For example, you should go for size 10.5 if you are size 9.5.

05. Saucony Women’s Cohesion 10

Saucony is considered an epitome of luxury when it comes to stylish engineering sneakers for a wide range of use. Cohesion 10 is not any exemption.

Featuring 100% mesh design, the shoe comes with a high rubber sole that is not only durable but also orthotic. To satisfy the unwavering customers’ desires for different colors, the shoe mode comes in fifteen different shades that are highly appealing.

The shoe is encased with excellent cushioning that is flexible to accommodate both the low-arched and neutral feet. You can count on it for activities such as running or walking on hard surfaces, trails, and roads, or muddy or swampy areas. The model comes in a forefoot height of about 17mm.

When it comes to Saucony Women’s cohesion 10, it is not a question of efficiency since that is guaranteed. Maybe you should worry about the number since the shoe comes only in medium and extra sizes. Otherwise, it is only better to do a test for the most recommended size fit.

Advantages

Pros
  • Uniquely designed with ideal theme and colors for a plethora of tasks alongside alleviating pain resulting for plantar from Plantar Fasciitis
  • Best selling shoe made by a reputable company whose quality is not anywhere questionable
  • Guarantee the needed comfort and efficiency in managing the effects of Plantar Fasciitis
  • The mesh design for the upper fabrics is highly breathable for relaxed feet, hence maximum comfort.
  • Very lightweight as compared to several variants in the market.
Cons
  • The mesh design may compromise the sturdiness and overall durability of the shoe
  • Its scope of use limited to only women and medium-sized footed.

06. Brooks Women’s Ghost 10

This review cannot be complete without mentioning the Brooks Women’s Ghost 10 Road Running Shoe, another release by the Brooks company.

Just from the word go, you will fall for the excellent aesthetic of this beautiful shoe. Made exclusively with synthetic, the shoe comes in a breathable mesh top, with the Brooks brand lace pattern. The two features provide the required level of breathability and the needed stretch for those who are suffering from plantar Fasciitis.

The shoe also features a high-energizing cushioning that supports the neutral feet. The model can apply on surfaces such as trails and tarmac.

Additionally, the Brooks Women’s Ghost 10 comes handy with lightweight synthetic overlays. It provides maximum support for both the medium and high-arched footed.

The famous-colors for this model–black/turquoise/purple were a result of close collaboration between the company and the special Olympics 2018. Meaning, the brand has all needed certification and trust when it comes to producing the best qualities on the planet.

Lastly, the shoe comes with a gender-friendly cushioning design, a full-length segmented crash pad, and omega flex grooves.

Pros
  • The cushioning and general design guarantees fluidity and natural forefoot movement
  • Comes handy with flex grooves that limit sliding for better movement
Cons
  • May not be ideal for the low-arched feet

07. Merrell Women Serial Age

Merrel Women is the shoe model to go for when looking for plenty of padding around the sole for better comfort. They provide a unique kind of soft surface that absorbs the body weight and help relieve pain from plantar Fasciitis.

Unlike some of the featured models, this shoe comes with removable insoles that can come out with orthopedic insoles and braces. They are the best bet when looking for something to cushion injured foot parts or that which guarantees maximum protection to the foot.

Merrell Women comes handy with sturdier Vibram outsoles. They are ideally suited for long periods of use outdoors, precisely on more robust surfaces such as roads. For the footbed, the manufacturer uses the contoured designs to make it as slip-free as possible.

Debris getting inside the shoe is not something to worry about. The shoe features below tongue that are efficient enough in keeping small stones and other particles away.

Pros
  • The mesh design guarantees the needed level of breathability.
  • Sturdy rubber sole lugs for durability and stability. Overall, the material makes it ideal for shaping the feet to relieve pain associated with plantar Fasciitis
  • Lace-based tightening for ease of use, comfort, and stability
Cons
  • Not ideal for the low-arched

08. KEEN Women’s Presidio Shoes

The last in the list of our review is the Women’s presidio shoe by Keen, another reputable shoemaker. These shoes come in a 100% full-grain and nubuck leather that guarantees cutting edge quality and durability.

This shoe model is made with the narrow and high-arched footed in mind. They provide better heel support for stability and go-ahead to train the leg on how to handle the effects of Plantar Fasciitis.

Keen Women’s presidio comes with a decent amount of padding. Neither it is too cushioned, nor minimalistic. Its scope of use encompasses different terrains ranging from the tarmacs to swampy tracks.

Keen uses rubber sole, molded midsole with a contoured footbed to hold the foot in place for stability. The insole guarantees adequate comfort while at the same time, helping correct the posture of the feet without any significant pain.

Pros
  • Surprisingly well-padded for maximum comfort and stability
  • Comes handy with Grippy treads for stability
Cons
  • With daily use, the shoe will risk being scruffy and dirty. To remove the lurking dirt, you will need to use a unique leather cleaner that is recommended by the manufacturer. Or else, you will risk compromising the quality and durability of the shoe.

You can Also Check: Can Plantar Fasciitis Cause Ankle Swelling? What is the Best Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis?

What Shoes Do Podiatrists Recommend for Plantar Fasciitis?

01. Firm sole

When it comes to plantar Fasciitis, few things help in the management of the resulting pain and other symptoms like a shoe within a firm sole. Unlike the flexible soles, a firm bottom guarantees a high level of protection to the feet as required by most medics.

The rigid sole controls a wide range of motion. It helps keep the ankle and the other parts of the foot aligned. As a result, there will be a significant decrease in the stretching of fascia ligaments as you walk. 

However, having a firm sole doesn’t mean that the shoe should not bend at the toe level. Instead, the pump should rock. Where there is an adequate rocker, the foot will comfortably bend along the metatarsal joints for seamless stretching of the fascia ligaments.

02. Firm heel counter

The heel counter refers to the back part of a shoe that usually wraps around the heel. That part should be rigid enough to stabilize the heel. However, this doesn’t mean it should be too sturdy to cause you heel pain when walking.

When shopping for plantar fasciitis shoes, use your thumb and index fingers to press the heel inward from the opposite sides of the shoe. A stable heel counter should not collapse inside.

03. Plush cushioning

Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis do a lot more than just stability. They also feature plush cushioning to provide superfine cushioning elements for comfort.

Coming up with an excellently cushioned plantar shoe is a labor-intensive job with no short cuts. However, for most variants, the cushioning is attributed to removable insoles with rigid insole boards. The boards are usually cemented on the upper parts for more stability and durability.

Variants that meet orthopedics specifications come handy with double-layered insoles. The insoles come conveniently with foam body to absorb both the body weight and the resulting pressure during pronation or supination.

04. Lace-up design

Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis feature the intuitive and aesthetic lace-up design. Through this, this option can provide maximum support to the feet and prevent slipping of the feet when running or walking.

Where you are not able to secure the lace-up designed shoes, you can try the velcro straps or buckled ones. These models also offer excellent stability and better support.

05. Excellent heel height

A flip flop is not appropriate footwear for plantar Fasciitis due to its flat design. On the other hand, a 2-inched bootstrap may not be an excellent option since they pose significant pressure on the calf muscle. This pressure goes beyond the heel section and causes a stretch in the plantar fascia.

Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis come with medium-height heels. The heels distribute the body weight to the mid-section of the feet to the toes. For the required level of comfort, a mid-section cushion will transfer the load to the toes hence leading to balancing.

I hope this article will help you to choose Best Doctor Recommends Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis. Please add your suggestions/reviews in the comment section below.

Are you interested to explore more options or some useful information about plantar fasciitis? Stay tuned! here is our blog.

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