Heel pain can be caused by a number of reasons, though the most common cause is plantar fasciitis, which is the stretching or tearing of the plantar fascia ligament that runs along the arch of the foot. The ligament often pulls at the heel connection, creating pain at the bottom and side of the heel or directly under the Achilles tendon.
Fortunately, this type of pain is often treated with rest and properly chosen shoe inserts to help reduce the pressure on the plantar fascia ligament and the heel.
Choosing the right type of shoe insert for heel pain
There are many types of shoe inserts to choose from when it comes to treating heel pain. These options range from relatively inexpensive ($25) over-the-counter inserts at drugstores to custom orthotics that are significantly more expensive but offer a higher quality and longer durability. Here are a couple of factors to consider when choosing the proper shoe insert for your heel pain.
- Are you planning to wear these for a long time? If you only have occasional heel pain and you are just looking for a temporary insert to offer extra support because you know you will be on your feet for a while (maybe during vacation or an event), then buying an over-the-counter option may be your best bet. Just be sure to buy a silicone type of material that doesn’t easily break down.
- Do you have chronic heel pain? If you have chronic heel pain, meaning your pain has lasted longer than six weeks, you need a more long-term solution. A shoe insert is still a great option, but a cheap over-the-counter insert is likely not for you. Choosing a higher-quality option or even a custom orthotic will better support your foot and give your plantar fascia ligament the rest it needs to heal properly.
At Biocorrect, we offer custom-made and over-the-counter orthotics designed to help reduce heel pain and other foot issues related to plantar fasciitis. Visit our online store and contact us with any questions.
