We weigh in on what works best to alleviate heel pain at home.
Those who suffer from plantar fasciitis know that there’s no rest for the weary. When your feet hurt, your instinct is to kick ’em up and take a load off, but plantar fasciitis can actually worsen during periods of rest. According to Dr. Shine John, D.P.M., a podiatric surgeon at Shine Foot & Ankle Center, plantar fasciitis—or the inflammation of the ligament band that runs from your heel to your toes—is at its worst after periods of sitting. Among other things that increase these sharp, often stabbing pains: flimsy soles, ultra-cushioned fabrics, and slip-ons—all things that make up our favorite pairs of house slippers. So, are there house slippers for plantar fasciitis sufferers?
Short answer: Yes. If you’re struggling to get relief from terrible foot pain, hope is not lost. There are now a wide array of orthotic brands that make shoes specifically constructed to help alleviate heel pain in all shapes and styles. “You need to find supportive footwear that will help reverse this painful condition,” says Olya Schaefer, the founder and CEO of The Athleticus Personal Training Studio. If you’ve figured out which shoes are best for your plantar fasciitis, you probably already know what to look for.
“When shopping for house slippers for plantar fasciitis, look for ones that offer heel support, arch support, and good shock absorption,” advises Dr. John. “A rubber outer sole is ideal for added stability, and lightweight designs are a plus for comfort,” he adds.
“Another feature I look for in a house slipper is making sure it has a heel counter which is the part that goes around your heel,” says Jenifer Perez, D.C., the COO of Gait Happens. A heel counter ensures that your slippers don’t slide off (aka, you don’t have to use your toes to grip them on!).
After chatting with our experts and combing through reviews of real-life sufferers of heel pain, we managed to round up the best house slippers for plantar fasciitis to help you get the rest and relaxation you deserve. Keep reading to see which pair might be right for you.
Read the full article and our recommendations at Prevention.com