Foot cryotherapy, a relatively new procedure to treat the pain from chronic plantar fasciitis, is growing in popularity.

Initial reports show that the procedure has a great deal of potential, providing significant pain relief with a minimally invasive procedure. In one long-term study about cryosurgery for heel pain, 77% of patients reported significant pain relief in both short- and long-term check-ins (3 weeks post-procedure and 24 months post-procedure).

What should you know about foot cryotherapy? Is it safe? What is the difference between whole body cryotherapy and localized cryotherapy? Is it painful? How much does it cost? We have your answers!

What Is Foot Cryotherapy or Cryosurgery?

Cryotherapy, also known as cryosurgery or cryoultrasound, actually destroys nerve fibers (not the nerve itself). While the nerve remains intact, the inflamed nerve fibers (imagine an anemone) are destroyed. In about three weeks’ time, new fibers regenerate with healthy cells.

Cryotherapy is pretty similar to radiotherapy ablation–in which an ultrasound-guided probe uses heat to target and destroy damaged tissue. In cryotherapy, an ultrasound-guide cryoprobe uses ice and cold (more specifically nitrous oxide) to destroy damaged nerve fibers to interrupt pain signals.

Previously, cryotherapy was something of a shotgun approach. However, with advances in technology physicians are able to effectively target specific nerves with a cryoprobe.

Localized Cryotherapy Vs. Whole-Body Cryotherapy

The type of cryotherapy used to treat plantar fasciitis is also known as localized cryotherapy, since only a small part of the body (the plantar fascia) is treated, using a guided probe. However, as localized cryotherapy has grown in popularity, some health providers now offer whole-body cryotherapy.

In whole-body cryotherapy treatment sessions, a person enters a very cold, subzero vestibule (as cold as -80 degrees celsius!) for a short amount of time. While there hasn’t been much research to back the benefits of whole-body cryotherapy, supposed benefits include a rush of endorphins and reduced inflammation. But a study from 2014 cautions that icing and cold water baths appear to be equally effective (and far less expensive).

Cold Therapy Vs. Localized Foot Cryotherapy

So, is localized cryotherapy any more effective than, say, icing your feet or submerging your foot in very cold water to help reduce pain and inflammation? Yes and no.

While ice packs and cold water will certainly reduce inflammation and pain (and are fantastic for everyday use!) these home therapies won’t actually destroy inflamed nerve fibers that can be a cause of persistent pain like a cryotherapy probe.

Is Cryotherapy a Safe Procedure for Heel Pain?

Cryotherapy is generally considered very safe with minimal side effects, although you should remember that this is a newer procedure for plantar fasciitis that is still considered investigational/experimental. Cryoultrasound has been the subject of more in-depth research when it comes to neuromas and the destruction of abnormal tissue like tumors.

The good news is that while studies on cryotherapy and plantar fasciitis are still sparse, initial studies and anecdotal evidence are promising. And given the low risk of side effects and the lower cost (compared to surgery), cryosurgery shows a lot of potential.

What You Should Know About Foot Cryotherapy

The first thing you should know is that foot cryosurgery isn’t a painful procedure. You’ll feel a pinch from the needle when the local anesthetic is injected, of course, but after that, you won’t feel much more than light pressure during the procedure as a tiny incision is made and a cryoprobe is inserted into the foot.

The entire procedure will only take a few minutes, during which your doctor will guide the cryoprobe with the help of an ultrasound. A tiny, very cold ice ball on the end of the cryoprobe will destroy damaged nerve fibers, blocking pain signals and allowing for the regeneration of healthy nerve fibers.

Recovering from Cryosurgery

After the procedure, you’ll be encouraged to rest and elevate your feet, ice the injection site, and take anti-inflammatory pain relievers as needed. You should notice your pain level decrease as your foot heals, and you can typically go back to work and resume your daily activities after just one or two days. If at the end of two or three weeks, your pain level hasn’t subsided significantly, the procedure can be repeated.

The site is covered with compression bandage and patients are advised to reduce activity, ice and elevate for the remainder of the day. The bandage can be removed the following day and the patient can cover the area with a regular Band-Aid. You should keep the injection site clean and dry for at least 24 hours. Normal activity can be resumed within one or two days of the procedure and any pain that occurs is managed with NSAIDs or Tylenol. Pain continues to reduce over a two-week period; if at the end of the four-week period the reduction is not sufficient, the procedure can be repeated.

Side Effects and Benefits of Cryotherapy

Side effects of cryotherapy are generally mild. Some inflammation may flare up during healing and shouldn’t last more than a few days. Other potential side effects include bruising at the site of the injection and cryoprobe insertion or mild frostbite at the site of the probe insertion.

For some people who undergo cryosurgery, a tiny lump appears at the injection site that persists for several months after the area has healed. Typically, this lump will disappear within six months and isn’t painful.

For most people who undergo cryosurgery, the benefits outweigh these potential mild side effects. Many people experience significant or complete pain relief in the weeks and months following the surgery, particularly when cryosurgery is combined with treatments that address the root cause of plantar fasciitis.

How Much Does Cryotherapy Cost?

Cryosurgery is covered by many insurance plans, and out-of-pocket costs vary but fall somewhere in the neighborhood of $500 for most patients. Before deciding to undergo cryotherapy, make sure to talk to your doctor and insurance provider to find out your end cost.

Is Cryotherapy a Cure for Plantar Fasciitis?

While cryotherapy shows a lot of promise in reducing or eliminating pain from plantar fasciitis, new nerves that regenerate are still susceptible to damage unless the root cause of plantar fasciitis is addressed.

It’s important to determine the cause of your plantar fasciitis and take steps to prevent its return. Wearing plantar-fasciitis specific orthotic inserts that support and cushion your plantar fascia ligament, reducing the strain on your fascia, and stretching the muscles and ligaments in the arches, feet, and legs to keep them limber and strong will go a long way toward treating the root cause of your plantar fasciitis.

 

The year I turned 50, my family went all out with “Over the Hill” decorations. Black cake, black balloons, and all kinds of “hilarious” cards.

It was all in good fun — and hey, I didn’t feel old! But about six months later, when I started to notice that my feet hurt more often than not, I started to worry. Was this what happened on the other side of the hill?

As I finally learned from my podiatrist, I wasn’t alone. Foot pain is extremely common in mature adults. But thankfully, I wasn’t doomed to foot pain for the rest of my days either.

Walking on Broken Glass

I’d always taken a lot of pride in staying active. When I was a younger woman, I ran half marathons. As I got older, I slowed down a little but I still regularly played tennis and hiked in the foothills near my home.

I’d had sore feet before — nothing major. But I’d never experienced anything like the “walking on shards of glass” feeling that made the first steps out of bed in the morning almost unbearable. I stopped playing tennis, stopped hiking, even stopped walking to the mailbox when I could avoid it, because my feet hurt so much.

In a panic, I made an appointment with a podiatrist.

Learning I’d Lost the Spring in My Step

At the podiatrist’s office, there was good news, and there was bad news. The bad news came first: I had literally lost the “spring” in my step. After listening to my symptoms and doing some imaging to rule out a stress fracture, the doctor explained that I had a condition known as “plantar fasciitis.”

He explained that the plantar fascia is the “springy” ligament that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot, and helps absorb impact. Those “springs” can wear out as a result of injury, overuse— or the normal aging process. My doctor explained that while athletes are the ones who make news headlines when they get plantar fasciitis, the most common risk factor for the condition is age!

And that wasn’t all:

And Bunions, Too!

It turned out that plantar fasciitis wasn’t my only problem. I also had bunions (which may have been a contributing factor in my plantar fasciitis).

I’d notice that the bump where my big toes met my foot seemed to be more pronounced than my husband’s — and I could feel it rub against my shoes while I walked. Sometimes, after a tennis match, I realized they were red and inflamed. But I didn’t know that bunions could subtly change my gait over time and strain my arch as my body tried to minimize the discomfort

Okay, How Did This Happen to Me?

My podiatrist reassured me that aging feet are simply at higher risk for different conditions that cause foot pain — including plantar fasciitis.

The doctor reassured me that while the bunions and my active lifestyle might have played a role in my plantar fasciitis diagnosis, age was likely the main contributing factor. I had no idea that the aging process flattens and widens the feet, making it harder for the plantar fascia (that spring in my step) to absorb impact, and wearing down the heel’s natural fatty cushioning.

Older adults also deal with changes in circulation (which may slow healing when we overuse or injure our feet), and changes in the strength of skin and tissue that make injuries from rubbing or pressure more common (hello, bunions!).

Finding Answers for Foot Pain

My doctor was quick to reassure me that foot pain wasn’t a life sentence. I was also relieved to learn that most people with a diagnosis of plantar fasciitis recover within a few months — without surgery.

I left the podiatrist’s office with a prescription for rest, stretching exercises for my plantar fascia, and instructions to ice my feet whenever they felt inflamed or painful. My doctor also recommended orthotic inserts that I could slip into almost any pair of shoes I already owned, to help support my injured arch and make walking much less painful.

I was given strict instructions to stop wearing shoes that rubbed against my feet while I walked, or were too tight in the toes.

Getting My Spring Back!

I’m happy to say that while I might be “over the hill,” I’m back to hiking in the hills without foot pain! It took a few months. And I’m more vigilant about giving my feet a good rest after a long hike than I was before. But it’s safe to say I have the spring back in my step.

Those orthotic inserts my podiatrist recommended were a lifesaver. In the short term, they took the pressure off my arch and relieved that “walking on broken glass” sensation. And in the long term, combined with stretching to improve my strength and flexibility, and better-fitting shoes, my arch actually was able to heal and recover.

I’ve also added the following tools into my daily and weekly routine. After learning what it’s like to be knocked off my feet, I’m doing everything I can to keep them healthy:

• Orthotic inserts: My doctor recommended fascia bar inserts because they are more effective than regular cushioning and arch support
• Compression socks: These socks help improve my blood circulation, important for older adults
• Massage ball: This little ball helps roll out painful muscle knots and scar tissue, as well as improving circulation in my feet
• Ice therapy slippers: Since I ice my feet regularly, I wanted an upgrade from the ziploc bag! These slippers stay in place, with no mess, and strap right to your feet.

 

The word gout comes from the Greek word podagra, which literally translates to “foot grabber.”

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid and characterized by foot pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty walking is typically localized in the big toe. However, some types of gout may be localized in the heel, making it difficult to distinguish from plantar fasciitis.

Let’s explore the connection between gout and heel pain, as well as symptoms that can help you tell the difference between plantar fasciitis and gout

The Connection Between Heel Pain and Gout

While it’s fairly rare for gout pain to appear in the heel (instead of near the big toe), it does happen!

Gout that leads to foot pain develops when there are high levels of uric acid in the body. And high levels of uric acid are most likely to develop under the following conditions:

• Diet: A diet that is heavily focused on red meat, sugar (particularly fructose), and alcohol (beer, in particular) can increase levels of uric acid and gout.
• Increase in body fat: As your body increases its stores of body fat, uric acid levels rise, and your kidneys may struggle to eliminate the excess.
• Medications: Some medications, including hypertension, may increase uric acid in the body. Studies show that Thiazide diuretics (which treat hypertension) are key culprits.
• Untreated medical conditions: High blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and kidney disease can all contribute to higher than usual levels of uric acid in the body, and gout.
• Genetics and gender: There is a genetic link to gout. If you have a family history of gout, you may be especially susceptible. Younger men are more likely to get gout than women; however, postmenopausal women have an increased risk as well.

How Can High Uric Acid Cause Heel Pain?

So, why does gout show up in the feet (as opposed to other body parts)? Uric acid is very sensitive to cooler temperatures. As it circulates throughout the body and reaches the feet (furthest from the heart and typically the coolest), the liquid uric acid crystalizes, leading to pain in the joints of the big toe or joint of the heel (where the heel bone meets the ankle bone).

Uric acid levels rise when your body breaks down “purines.” Purines are found in foods like red meat and alcohol, as well as in certain medications and naturally in the human body (especially as fat stores increase).

Most of the time, your body is able to manage uric acid levels effectively, simply dumping the uric acid into your kidneys where it is excreted as urine. However, when uric acid levels get high enough, your kidneys may struggle to keep up, and uric acid may stay in your bloodstream where it causes inflammation, pain, and swelling as it crystallizes in the joints of the foot.

Is My Heel Pain Gout or Plantar Fasciitis?

Heel pain can be confusing at times. While the most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, other less common ailments like gout can mimic similar symptoms! Use this helpful symptom guide to determine whether you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis or gout:

Symptoms of Heel Pain from Plantar Fasciitis

The hallmark symptoms of plantar fasciitis include the following:

• Heel pain that’s most intense first thing in the morning (when the plantar fascia hasn’t “warmed up” yet through movement).
• Pain that improves somewhat with stretching and low-impact physical activity
• Sharp or dull pain, accompanied by redness or swelling
• Pain that coincides with weight gain
• Difficulty walking or standing on the affected foot (plantar fasciitis can happen in both feet, though more rarely!)
• Pain that improves through the use of orthotics that help properly realign and cushion the plantar fascia

Symptoms of Heel Pain Due to Uric Acid

Anyone can get gout, although it’s most common in individuals with the risk factors we covered earlier (like heavy alcohol use, or a diet that includes a lot of red meat.) The symptoms of gout in the heel are subtly different from those of plantar fasciitis in the heel:

• Redness, swelling and tenderness that is most pronounced where the heel meets the ankle. You are also likely to notice symptoms at the base of the big toe.
• Often, gout symptoms will flare-up in the middle of the night (when that uric acid settles and cools during this period of low activity)
• During a flare-up, your heel will feel so hot and painful to the touch that even wearing socks is excruciating
• Pain that is less intense but lingers after a “gout attack” flare-up of pain
• Increasing difficulty moving the joint

As a general rule of thumb, pain from plantar fasciitis will improve with rest, while pain from gout will flare up during long periods of inactivity and rest.

Treating Heel Pain from Gout

Thankfully, most cases of heel pain from gout can be successfully resolved with minimal medical intervention and changes to diet and lifestyle.

Medications

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like Tylenol and Ibuprofen can help relieve pain from a gout attack, as well as reduce pain and swelling in the heel.

Colchicine is another common medication prescribed to treat pain from gout, however, it can cause severe side effects like nausea and diarrhea. Your doctor will likely recommend the minimal dose needed.

Corticosteroids are used in rare cases when NSAIDs or Colchicine can’t be taken since these drugs have serious side effects including high blood pressure and high blood sugar.

If you have ongoing gout attacks, or severe ongoing gout symptoms your doctor may also consider prescribing medication that limits the amount of uric acid your body produces.

Lifestyle Changes

Limit foods that increase uric acid production: These foods include alcohol, red meat, seafood, organ meats, fructose sugars, and other foods high in purines.

Exercise and manage weight when possible: As possible, maintain a healthy weight to keep the body’s own production of uric acid down.

Drink coffee: While scientists don’t understand the link completely, some studies have shown that drinking coffee can help lower your levels of uric acid!

Add more vitamin C to your diet: Taking at least 500 mg of vitamin C each day (and eating foods rich in vitamin C) has been shown to make a measurable, positive impact on uric acid levels in the body!

Have you suffered from heel pain that turned out to be gout? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!

Wondering which foot pain products are the real game-changers for heel pain or plantar fasciitis?

You won’t find any so-so or “it worked okay” products on this list. Every single one is a slam dunk (a most have a money-back guarantee to boot!)

Just so you know, we participate in the Amazon Affiliates program, so we may earn a small commission if you purchase through the links in this article.

1. Heel Seats

It’s no surprise that so many people have nicknamed these orthotic inserts “Little blue miracles.” Skeptical? Just read the thousands of glowing reviews from plantar fasciitis sufferers who thought they had tried “everything” for foot pain.”

Not only do washable, reusable Heel Seats hold their shape time after time (unlike the cheap foam ones that end up crushed and flat), but they provide just the right amount of support, combined with just the right amount of cushioning. Most people notice a difference in pain relief right away, and after a few weeks of wear you can expect to kiss foot pain goodbye — or your money back.

Click here to get Heel Seats (add two pairs to your cart for a special discount!)

 

2. Anti-Inflammatory Cream

Penetrex was developed in Southern California after eight years of research. And this stuff is a lifesaver for quick foot pain relief. It won’t stain your socks, won’t leave your feet feeling slippery or greasy, and it doesn’t have a weird smell (which makes it especially great for the office or on the job!).

Bonus: It also comes with an unconditional guarantee: “Pain-free results, or a pain-free refund.”

Click here to get Penetrex inflammation cream.

3. Barefoot Wraps

Move aside, flip-flops. There’s no need to choose between adorable (but flimsy and unsupportive) footwear for the beach, and stodgy, hot orthotic shoes. Heel Seat Wraps can be worn with almost any pair of sandals (or all by themselves!) for summery, toes-in-the-sand bliss combined with arch support and pain relief.

Click here to get barefoot wraps.

 

4. Yoga Toes

If hammer toes or bunions are the cause of your foot pain, a toe stretcher like Yoga Toes can make a world of difference!

Toe separators gently uncurl, separate, and stretch, painful or deformed toes while you rest, improving circulation, realigning the toes, and gently stretching the tendons and muscles of the foot. This can also be beneficial for heel pain and plantar fasciitis!

Click here to get YogaToes!

 

5. Ice Therapy Slippers

These slippers are an absolute game-changer when it comes to icing your feet. No more Ziploc baggies of leaking, watery ice cubes (that freeze into crazy shapes when you try to reuse them!).

Ice Therapy Slippers are foot-shaped ice packs that strap right to your feet, so they stay put, delivering soothing cold therapy to inflamed, painful heels or feet. When you’re done icing, just pop them back in the freezer for next time!

Click here to get Ice Slippers.

 

6. Foot Stretcher

Let’s face it: It’s not always easy to get that perfect stretch for your arch. The no-slip ProStretch foot stretcher allows you to get a deeper, perfectly positioned stretch that can help loosen tight calves, heels, arches, and hamstrings; improve strength and flexibility; and improve blood flow.

Click here to get the ProFoot Stretcher.

 

7. KT Tape

A damaged, injured plantar fascia needs stability and support. Taping up the foot and arch with KT tape is a fantastic way to help stabilize the plantar fascia and limit movement while you heal. The extra compression and support is also a lifesaver for pain relief!

There’s a slight learning curve when it comes to taping technique, but the good news is that tape can stay put for several days (and overnight!) before it starts to peel off.

Click here to get Kinesiology Tape.

 

8. Compression Socks

Hold on, don’t skip this one! You might think you’ve tried compression socks before, but if you haven’t tried these babies, you haven’t tried compression socks! With gentle yet firm compression, comfortable cuffs, and roomy toes you’ll feel supported–without feeling strangled! The material is breathable, anti-fungal, and cozy. Wear them day or night for soothing compression that helps reduce swelling and promote blood circulation.

Click here to get compression socks.

 

9. Calf/Foot Massager

Speaking of circulation, this calf/foot massager is a true gem that improves circulation soothes aching feet. Give yourself the gift of the perfect foot/calf massage every single night! The slip-on boots have two massage modes, with three intensity levels and a handheld remote control. (Don’t be too surprised if you spouse or roommate tries to steal this one!)

Click here to get the foot and leg massager.

 

10. Foot Massage Ball

A massage ball made especially for plantar fasciitis is just the ticket for anytime pain relief. Pop it in your purse, desk drawer, or even in your glovebox! Just roll it along the bottom of each foot for 2-3 minutes to help relieve tightness and knots, improve blood flow, and relieve pain quickly.

Click here to get a foot massage ball.

 

11. Metatarsal Pad

If your foot pain is localized in the metatarsal area (where the toes connect to the foot) from diabetes, Morton’s neuroma, calluses, or bunions a metatarsal pad can be a lifesaver. This soft gel pad cushions and compresses the ball of the foot for pain relief, support, and help properly distributing bodyweight while walking and other physical activities.

Click here to get metatarsal pads.

 

12. Plantar Fasciitis eBook

Knowledge is power–and one of the most important ways you can beat foot pain! This free plantar fasciitis ebook covers causes and symptoms of plantar fasciitis, as well as proven natural and medical treatment options for foot pain!

Click here to get the free plantar fasciitis ebook.

 

13. Tens Machine

While electrical current might sound like a strange solution for foot pain, it’s actually pretty incredible. A tens machine delivers an “electrical massage,” using sticky electrodes that attach to your foot. These low-voltage pulses help stimulate the muscles for better blood circulation, reduced inflammation, and rapid temporary pain relief.

Click here to get a tens machine.

 

14. Cupping Set

Cupping is standard practice for injured athletes— and if you’ve ever wondered what you might be missing, this cupping set is an excellent option! Cupping can help improve foot pain through a unique deep-tissue massage as the cups pull the skin and tissue of the foot into the vacuum created by the cups.

Click here to get the cupping set.

 

15. Full-Length Arch Supports

If you have foot pain paired with high arches, standard orthotic inserts might not cut it. Full-Length Heel Seats take support to the next level, by gently cradling the entire foot while re-aligning the arch to an ideal position.

Click here to get Full Length Heel Seats.

 

16. Heated Foot Warmer

You know that “ahhh” feeling when you step into a perfectly warm bath? This soft, heated foot warmer is like that! Use it to relieve muscle aches, relax and warm cold feet, and stimulate blood flow in painful feet.

Click here to get the foot warmer pouch.

First, the good news: 90% of plantar fasciitis cases can be successfully resolved with simple, conservative treatments.

What’s the bad news? The longer plantar fasciitis goes unaddressed, the longer the healing process takes and the more potential complications that may arise. Not allowing your arch enough rest time after a foot injury, working a job that requires a lot of time on your feet, participating in high-impact activities without proper footwear or support, and failing to follow through with at-home treatments after symptoms develop are the most common ways plantar fasciitis persists and gets worse.

Click here to get the #1 plantar fasciitis inserts.

Risks of Untreated Plantar Fasciitis

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis and heel pain usually develop gradually, although some cases can develop more quickly (for instance, after a foot injury). If heel pain and other symptoms of plantar fasciitis (like redness, inflammation, and swelling in the feet) are left untreated, other more serious complications can arise:

Plantar Tears

Over time, if plantar fasciitis is left untreated, the inflammation and stress to the plantar fascia can result in small tears in the fascia (sometimes called “micro-injuries”). You may not be aware of the exact moment that each small tear appears, however you will notice your pain level gradually worsen. If these tears are left unaddressed, they may grow in size and number, and make the plantar fascia more vulnerable to rupture and debilitation.

Plantar Rupture

Plantar rupture can happen if plantar fasciitis is not addressed, but an individual continues to participate in activities that place a great deal of impact on the plantar fascia. These activities might include jogging, sports, or even standing for long periods of time in ill-fitting footwear.

Symptoms of plantar fascia rupture usually include a loud popping sound, followed by intense pain, bruising, and swelling in the foot. Putting weight on the affected foot will be very painful. If you suspect plantar rupture, you should seek medical help immediately. You will likely be required to wear a boot or crutches for a period of time after a ruptured plantar fascia.

Research also shows that steroid injections, a common treatment for pain relief of chronic plantar fasciitis, are a significant risk factor for plantar rupture, because of the way that the steroids interfere with collagen synthesis in the foot.

Plantar Fibromatosis

Plantar fibromatosis is a condition in which benign, slow-growing nodules form along the plantar fascia. The nodules often grow slowly and undetected, followed by sudden, rapid growth. As time passes and the nodules grow, walking may become uncomfortable or painful.

While many cases of plantar fibromatosis are believed to be triggered by genetics, there is is a correlation between individuals with plantar fasciitis and individuals with plantar fibromatosis. Some researchers believe that plantar fibromatosis can be triggered by a tear in the fascia that is left untreated.

Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are one of the most common consequences of leaving plantar fasciitis untreated. In an attempt to protect the arch of your foot and mitigate damage, your body sends an army of cells to the site of the problem, which begins depositing calcium. Over time, these deposits can build up into sharp protrusions that dig into the fatty pad of the heel and cause a great deal of pain with each step.

Heel spurs can build up over several months’ time without causing pain. In other words, allowing plantar fasciitis to go untreated may mean that a secondary problem brews unnoticed–until the sharp pain reappears.

Complicated Decisions About Surgery and Medical Interventions

Left untreated, plantar fasciitis can become chronic and make surgery more likely. While surgery can be a successful last resort for cases of chronic plantar fasciitis that don’t respond to conservative treatments like orthotics, rest, and icing, it’s important to remember that surgery can often be avoided through prompt and consistent treatment when heel pain arises.

Help avoid complicated (and expensive) decisions about surgery and other medical interventions by taking symptoms of plantar fasciitis seriously!

Hip, Knee, and Back Pain from Plantar Fasciitis

Over time, untreated plantar fasciitis and heel pain can lead to unexpected hip, back, and knee pain. The arches of the feet work in tandem with the tendons, ligaments, and muscles throughout the lower body. When the plantar fascia is compromised, other muscles, ligaments, and tendons must work harder to compensate. This cascade of overuse can eventually lead to pain outside the arch.

Plantar fasciitis can also lead to abnormal gait patterns while walking or standing, leading to repetitive stress injuries as the hips, knees, and backs are repeatedly required to move in abnormal ways.

Listen to the Warning Signs of Plantar Fasciitis

Recognizing the symptoms of plantar fasciitis and treating this condition early is the best way to avoid secondary problems and complications. Think of the pain from developing plantar fasciitis as a warning, encouraging you to address the problem at hand before more damage occurs. Stretching, icing, and using special orthotic inserts are all effective ways to curb the damage from plantar fasciitis and begin healing.

 

This article was originally published on May 17, 2020, and updated on January 31, 2021.

 

There’s no question that clogs and Crocs are amazing. We love the way they slide right on without laces and straps, softly cradle our tired feet, and take us everywhere from the beach to the grocery store.

But we all know that the things we love aren’t always good for us. And many people have questions about whether Crocs and clogs are actually good for plantar fasciitis.

Don’t worry — we won’t tell you to toss your favorite pair of Crocs or clogs. But there are a few things you should know!

Are Clogs Good for Plantar Fasciitis?

Clogs have been around for a very long time–and with good reason! Wooden clogs were worn by the Dutch while they farmed long hours on their feet, and people around the world have adopted them since–including people who suffer from plantar fasciitis!

It’s important to remember that not all clogs are created equal. Some can be a lifesaver for painful heels, while others can actually make your plantar fasciitis worse.

Benefits of Clogs for Plantar Fasciitis

You can find a staggering array of different clogs — from lightweight trendy slippers to orthopedic clogs made especially for professionals who spend a lot of time on their feet.

The right pair of clogs can offer easy-on, easy-off casual footwear that cradles and cushions sore heels, doesn’t compress your toes while you walk, and supports your damaged arch.

Clogs designed for working professionals or orthopedic support are ideal for individuals with plantar fasciitis. Choose clogs with a thick, cushioned sole, clear arch support, and a comfortable fit that leaves you plenty of room in the toe box but doesn’t slide around while you walk.

Drawbacks of Clogs for Plantar Fasciitis

Most of the drawbacks of wearing clogs for plantar fasciitis come from choosing the wrong type of clog or wearing a shoe that doesn’t fit properly. Ill-fitting or cheaply made shoes can place additional strain on your damaged arch, or cause additional wear to an already damaged heel pad.

Avoid clogs with a hard, thin sole and opt for a cushioned, thick sole with clear arch support. You’ll also want to make sure your clogs fit properly and don’t cause your foot to slide around too much while you walk (another hallmark of cheaper fashion clogs). A comfortably loose fit in the toe box is ideal, but your heel should be cupped securely, resting below the ball of the foot when you stand in the shoe.

Are Crocs Good for Plantar Fasciitis?

Crocs, which were originally made as non-slip, waterproof shoes for boating, have quickly become a popular choice for plantar fasciitis sufferers.

Benefits of Crocs for Plantar Fasciitis

Like clogs, Crocs come in a wide number of colors, styles, and brands! Some crocs are now made especially for individuals with heel pain, while others are meant to be worn as a casual, colorful waterproof shoe.

The right pair of crocs can help protect your feet, cushion your heel, and support your arch in situations that you might otherwise go barefoot (like the beach, pool, in the yard, or on a boat).

Crocs are typically extremely lightweight, breathable, and promote circulation which can be an advantage over clogs, especially in the summertime — or for individuals with diabetes. And like clogs, Crocs have lots of room in the toe box to promote a natural, healthy gait that doesn’t compress the toes.

Potential Drawbacks of Crocs for Plantar Fasciitis

Crocs weren’t meant to be running shoes, or even walking shoes for long distances. Don’t wear them while you walk or stand for long periods of time. Instead, opt for running shoes with orthotic inserts, which will offer better arch support and cushioning.

You’ll also want to be wary of “fashion crocs,” which are typically thinner, less cushioned, don’t have much in the way of arch support, and are less structurally stable while you walk.

Make sure you choose a pair of Crocs that has a supportive heel cup, arch support, and a thick, cushioned sole (instead of thinner plastic that may bend or distort as you walk).

How to Make Your Fashion Crocs or Clogs Better for Plantar Fasciitis

Have a pair of trendy Crocs or clogs you love — that aren’t exactly compatible with your plantar fasciitis because of a hard, thin sole or lack of arch support? There’s no need to toss your favorite pair of shoes.

Just add arch support and heel cushioning with Heel Seat Wraps. These lightweight, comfortable wraps can be worn all by themselves, or with almost any pair of shoes (including open toed sandals!) to help align and support a compromised arch, and soothe a damaged heel pad.

Clogs Designed Specifically for People with Heel Pain

When looking for a new pair of clogs, your safest bet is to buy clogs that are designed specifically for people with plantar fasciitis and other forms of heel pain. 

Heel Seat Clogs are the only clogs on the market that use technology that is patented and clinically proven for heel pain. The Fascia Bar sits right at the base of the heel where your arch meets your heel bone, lifting and realigning the plantar fascia ligament and providing gentle acupressure into a common pain hotspot. They also fit more snugly to the bottom of your foot than other clog designs to ensure that you constantly have the support your feet need.

If you have plantar fasciitis, clogs and Crocs can make long hours on your feet more bearable and comfortable–as long as they have the proper arch support, cushioning, and fit! That’s where Heel Seat Clogs come in! But even if your favorite pair of crocs or clogs lack arch support or cushioning, there’s still hope. Just add a pair of Heel Seat Wraps, so you can continue to wear the shoes you love without worrying about making your heel pain worse!