Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition associated with inflammation of plantar fascia, which is the thick band of fibrous connective tissue stretching across from the ball of the foot to the heel. Plantar fascia is a very important part of the foot anatomy. It plays a vital role in supporting the arch of the foot. When plantar fascia is stretched beyond normal limits, it causes a discomforting heel pain. The common causes of inflammation of this ligament include sudden weight gain, obesity and structural foot abnormalities such as high arches or fallen arches. Wearing ill fitting footwear and over-stretching of the ligament due to sprinting or long-distance running, especially, on hard or uneven surfaces are some of the most common causes of an inflamed plantar fascia.

If runners or athletes don't wear shoes that provide proper arch support, they are definitely at a risk of developing this painful foot condition. They must, therefore, make it a point to buy shoes that are designed to prevent over-stretching of this ligament. Here's some information on the brands that offer the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis.

Tips for Buying Running Shoes

Heel pain is mainly caused due to the stress felt as the foot strikes the ground. As you run, you first land on the outer part of the heel and this is followed by the inward rolling movement so as to absorb the shock. The inward rolling of the foot, which is also called pronation, helps in distributing the entire body weight evenly. In case of some people, the inward rolling movement might be more or less than the normal fifteen percent. This excessive inward rolling or inadequate rolling movement is referred to as overpronation and underpronation respectively. While buying running shoes, one must look for brands that offer shoes that help in correcting overpronation or underpronation. Sporting shoes that don't provide proper cushioning and shock absorption definitely makes one prone to ankle sprains or inflammation in plantar fascia. So, make sure that you buy running shoes that are specially designed for people with plantar fasciitis. By that I mean shoes that provide ankle stability, motion control and arch support. Given below is some information on brands offering shoes that can help in preventing over-stretching of the plantar fascia.

Brands Offering Running Shoes Specially Designed for Plantar Fasciitis

If you are already beginning to experience heel pain, especially, when you take the first few steps on getting up from the bed in the morning, it's time to examine your shoes. At times, inflammation in the plantar fascia is brought on by wearing old shoes where the soles as well as cushioning inside the shoes has worn out. So, dump those worn-out shoes and buy a pair of good running shoes. In case of people who overpronate, the best option would be to buy stability shoes that are well-cushioned, durable and provide proper medial support. Some of the overpronators might benefit by wearing motion control shoes. Whether you go shopping for walking shoes, running shoes or dress shoes, make sure that you look for brands that are known for offering shoes with proper arch support.

These days many footwear brands are incorporating the necessary features to create running shoes that can lower the risk of an inflamed plantar fascia. New Balance figures on the top in the list of the brands that offer good quality running shoes for men and women suffering from plantar fasciitis. Other brands include Saucony, ASICS, Nike, Adidas, Mizuno and Brooks Sports also provide good-quality plantar fasciitis shoes for women as well as men. New Balance WR993, Brooks Addiction 8, Saucony Grid Cohesion NX and ASICS Gel-1140 are some of the best women's running shoes, specially designed for plantar fasciitis. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, you can also consult a podiatrist about orthotics or shoe inserts.

The next time you go shopping for a pair of running shoes, make sure that you buy shoes that not only fit you perfectly, but are also best-suited to the gait and structure of your feet. Wearing proper footwear is a good way to prevent this painful foot condition from surfacing.