All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
When a full footwear overhaul isnt in the cards, try the best insoles for plantar fasciitis instead.
But a simple insert might be all it takes to help your feet feel a little better.
Insoles thatll relieve plantar fasciitis pain are rigid and sturdy.
It doesnt get much easier than slipping some new orthotics into your shoes.
Check out our favorite insoles for plantar fasciitis below.
This version is meant for neutral arches.
But PowerStep also makes insoles forhigh archesandlow arches, so you might choose your best fit.
Thanks to their cloudlike cushioning and adjustable support, these insoles should help easeknee pain.
Theyre thick and firm, but still have some cushioningyoull get a nice balance of structure and comfort.
Vincent’s Medical Centerin Bridgeport, Connecticut, previously recommended them to SELF because of their shock-absorbing design.
He explained that they can help reduce strain on your feet, for all-day comfort.
Their supportive arches and deep heel cups help stabilize your feet and prevent your heels from shifting.
Plus, our reviewer noted they fit seamlessly into her go-toAsics sneakers.
(You get an insert!
Andyouget an insert!).
These conditions may put more tension on your plantar fascia, which can cause irritation.
Can insoles help alleviate plantar fasciitis pain?
Insoles can be incredibly helpful for people with plantar fasciitis, Dr. Piekarska says.
She adds that proper support can help address some of the stress and inflammation that causes plantar fasciitis.
Dr. Gremillion recommends trying an insolebeforebuying a whole new shoe.
How do you break in an insole?
Once you find the right insoles, Dr. Gremillion says you should take your time breaking them in.
He recommends you start by wearing them for a couple hours.
After the first few days, you’ve got the option to gradually increase your wear time.
In about two weeks, it should feel comfortable to wear your new insoles all day long.
What should you look for when buying insoles for plantar fasciitis?
But there are still some key features that will set a high-quality OTC insert apart from the rest.
Stiffness
First, it should be somewhat rigid.
That will provide enough structure to prevent your plantar fascia from straining or overstretching, Dr. Piekarska says.
These will be too flimsy or squishy to properly support your foot, Dr. Gremillion says.
He recommends squeezing the insoles arch to see if it collapses under pressure.
If it does, it will probably also shrink under the weight of your body.
Look for one that stays firm when you do the squeeze test.
Heel cup
Both Dr. Piekarska and Dr. Gremillion emphasize the importance of a deep heel cup.
That helps prevent overpronation (a.k.a.
Dr. Gremillion adds that this is the part of the insole thatshouldhave extra gel and cushioning.
Related:
Get more ofSELFs stellar product recommendations delivered right to your inbox (for free!
