Bottom Of The Foot Pain [Causes, Symptoms & Best Treatment]

Bottom Of The Foot Pain: Make 100% sure you find the causes & best treatment for your bottom of the sole, heel, and feet!

Why do I have bottom of the foot pain?

plantar fasciitis heel spur stress fracture

Heel Pain Causes: Picture & Photo Gallery

Look:

Please click on the gallery for a guided tour through heel pain conditions!

Why Do I Have Bottom of the Foot Pain?

  • Being on your feet all day has many pros and cons. It makes you stay healthy, and it makes your body feel much better, but the more we walk can make us hurt our feet.
  • This is especially true at the bottom of our feet.
  • Your feet can sometimes support 3x your body weight to each foot while walking and running. This can be over 1,000 lbs per foot for some of our patients!
back of the heel pain from achilles tendonitis
The bottom of the foot and heel pain is usually the plantar fascia. But look at all the structures down there! It could be the bone or soft tissue.
  • As a result, your feet are highly susceptible to injury and can be very sore at the end of the day and night.
  • This is especially common to wake up in the morning and suddenly feel pain and soreness in your feet.
  • Why do your feet hurt so much when you first get up in the morning? Why do they ache when you’re resting on the couch and in bed, there are many things you can do to fix your foot pain!
Back of the heel spur and bottom of the heel spur
This patient had both Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis at the same time for many years. You can see that there are the beginnings of an Achilles tendon heel spur in the plantar fascia heel spur at the bottom of the foot.

What causes the bottom of the feet to hurt?

  • The most common causes of the bottom of the foot pain are related due to overuse injury.
  • These are usually not broken bones nor nerve conditions. Although when you read other websites, this is most likely what you see.
  • This is meant to be a very practical guide to address the most common 95% causes, not the 5% most dangerous causes.

plantar fascia pain with heel spur

Sole of Foot Pain Symptoms:

The most common symptoms of the bottom of the foot pain & plantar fasciitis include:

  • Pain in the morning when you wake up.
  • Delayed onset muscle soreness after resting for a long period of time.
  • Pain after getting up and moving while sitting on the couch.
  • Pain while driving in the heel.
  • Worsening pain as you stand during the day on hard surfaces.
  • Worsening pain while standing barefoot.
  • Worsening pain with un-supportive shoes.
  • Numbness burning and tingling in the heel.
  • Bottom of the heel pain.
  • The bottom of my feet hurt.
  • Sore soles of feet.
  • Sore, achy throbbing in the heel that gets worse while standing during the day.

Most Common Causes:

Plantar Fasciitis:

  • Plantar fasciitis is the single most common cause of bottom of heel pain!
  • The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel to the area over your toes.
Plantar fasciitis verse heel fat pad atrophy
Plantar fasciitis is a horizontal strain of the plantar fascia ligament. Fat fad heel atrophy is the loss of fatty tissue on the heel. Most people under 75 years old have plantar fasciitis. As you get older, it is possible to get heel pad atrophy.
  • People with plantar fasciitis experience pain across the bottom of their foot, usually in the mornings and after strenuous exercises like going for a jog.
  • You might even have heel pain while simply pushing at the bottom of your heel while sitting in place with your thumb.
  • The real key to plantar fasciitis is to decrease swelling and inflammation. It does not make sense to start stretching, exercising, and beating upon an already damaged muscle.
Heel fat pad cushion atrophy and heel spur formation
This is an example of heel fat pad atrophy. There is a lack of cushion on the bottom of the heel, and this spur is pushing against the ground. This can cause a large amount of heel pain while walking!
  • You have to think about this as a broken ankle. You wouldn’t exercise or stretch a broken ankle. It does need to rest to a certain degree.
  • Just applying a cream or taking medication will not make it better in one day. It can take weeks!
  • There is physical damage to this band of tissue, it does need time to heal, and you need to do all the right types of stuff to keep pressure off.
  • The secret is to find out how to keep moving while avoiding this type of pain.
  • Read the end of this guide to see just how to do that.

Plantar Fibroma:

  • This is when your plantar fasciitis develops a thick hard lump in the middle of the ligament. This can make the bottom of your feet hurt.
  • This is a thickening secondary to microscopic tears developing in the arch of the plantar fascia.
  • This can feel like walking on a hard, painful rock!
Plantar Fibroma Causes & Treatment
This is a picture of a plantar fibroma. A plantar fibroma is the thickening that occurs due to stress and irritation through the plantar fascia ligament.

Metatarsalgia:

  • The second most common cause of bottom of the foot pain is called metatarsalgia.
  • This is a very painful condition used to describe pain in the ball of the foot.
  • At the ball of the foot is the area of your toes there were and where your toes meet the front of the foot.
  • The condition is called metatarsalgia because the long bones in this area are called the metatarsal bones.
  • This type of pain is most common in people with very high arched feet, running and jumping activities, long-standing during the day. These bones and joints can become very swollen.
Metatarsalgia ball of the foot pain
Metatarsalgia or ball of the foot pain is the pain in the front of the foot.
This is most common in people who have very tight hamstrings. Calf muscles are putting much more pressure on the ball the foot. This can lead to neuroma, metatarsal, or even stress fracture pain.
  • Seeing a podiatrist for this condition or coming to see us can definitely result in pressure being taken off of this site.
  • This is a condition that can frequently be taken care of without any surgery, injections, or medications. This is where good shoes and good orthotics can come and play.
  • But you probably do want to get an image in terms of ultrasound or an x-ray in the office to get this evaluated.

Big Toe Joint Pain:

  • Big toe joint pain can be in numerous different conditions.
  • This could be a bunion which is a dislocation of the big toe joint.
  • It could be the turf toe which is a sprain of the big toe joint, or it could be arthritis of the big toe joint.
Big toe joint arthritis and ball of the foot pain.
Big toe joint arthritis may cause ball of the foot pain.
  • This pain could radiate from your big toe joint down through the bottom of the foot.
  • Try bending your big toe and see what happens is this where the pain is coming from, and your big toe up and down and see if this is what’s causing the bottom of your foot to her.
  • The big toe holding can deftly cause a nerve reaction through the bottom of your foot that radiates up the bottom of your foot and through your ankle.

Posterior Tibial Tendonitis:

  • The posterior tibial tendon goes down the inside of your leg towards the centerline of your body and attaches to the bottom inside of your foot.
  • This is the tendon that can sometimes be associated with shin splints.
  • This tendon helps support your foot’s natural arch. This can also cause pain and be associated with plantar fascia pain.
inside of the ankle pain posterior tibialis tendon PT nerve
The inside of the ankle is most frequently irritated to the posterior tibialis tendon. This can be similar to “shin splints” in some, although that is further up the leg.
  • Just like plantar fascia pain, it does not always make sense to start working out and stretching this muscle.
  • Just like you would not stretch or work out a broken ankle, it does not make sense to stretch out a damaged or tendon.
  • This is where a lot of the advice on the Internet goes wrong.
  • A true injury needs time to heal, and you need to make sure you are healing correctly.
  • This is another condition where a podiatrist can really come in handy to make sure that you don’t have a pretty significant injury.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome:

  • This is a condition similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist. If your ankle joint is putting pressure on your nerve, then you could have radiating pain at the bottom of your foot.
  • This type of pain can be felt the most at night-time while you are lying in bed.
  • If you have a sharp shooting pain that goes throughout your ankle joint and the bottom of your foot while sleeping, there’s a good chance that this is tarsal tunnel syndrome.
  • This is where podiatrists could come in handy and help you diagnosis this vs. other conditions.
Posterior Tibial tendon, posterior tibial artery and posterior tibial nerve
This is a dissection along with the poster tibial tendon muscle. This also exposes the posterior tibial nerve and posterior tibial artery.
This can also be the approach used for something called tarsal tunnel syndrome. This is the equivalent of carpal tunnel syndrome on the inside of your ankle.

Insertional Achilles Tendonitis:

  • The Achilles tendon and is the biggest tendon in your body.
  • The gastrocnemius is the large calf muscle that attaches to the Achilles tendon.
  • As people get older and less elastic, the Achilles tendon can become very irritated, inflamed, and painful as it inserts into the back of a heel.
  • This can rate me into the calcaneus heel bone and cause significant pain and tenderness.
Insertional Achilles tendonitis heel spur pain
This is the Achilles tendon inserting into the calcaneus. As you get Achilles tendonitis for many years, it gradually rips out of the bone and causes an Achilles tendon heel spur.

Calcaneus stress fracture:

  • Another name for the heel bone is called calcaneus.
  • This is a bone that holds the insertion for both the Achilles tendon in the plantar fascia ligaments.
  • A reasonable way to tell if you have a calcaneal stress fracture is to perform a calcaneal heel stress test by squeezing the calcaneus.
  • Squeezing the calcaneus from side to side is more likely to cause pain than planer fasciitis which occurs from the bottom, or the Achilles tendon insertion, which occurs from the back and from the Achilles tendon.
  • This can be a more serious problem than ligamentous injuries. However, it’s not ideal to have any of these.
Calcaneal stress fracture Heel stress fracture treatment
If you have a calcaneal stress fracture or a heel stress fracture, you are in the right place!

Plantar heel fat pad loss:

  •  Another name for this is plantar heel fat pad atrophy.
  • This means that as you get older, the fat pad protecting the bottom of your heel starts to disappear.
  • This is usually combined with the formation of a heel spur, and you can feel the bone with minimal cushion to the bottom of your foot.
  • It becomes extremely important to wear the proper orthotics in the proper shoes at this point. Unfortunately, some people just can’t get away with walking barefoot on hard surfaces anymore.
  • This is more likely to happen the older you get.
Heel fat pad cushion atrophy and heel spur formation
This is an example of heel fat pad atrophy. There is a lack of cushion on the bottom of the heel, and this spur is pushing against the ground. This can cause a large amount of heel pain while walking!

Heel Bruise or Stone Bruise:

  • It is possible to bruise your heel so bad that it is just a sort for about a month or two.
  • This is also commonly known as a stone bruise or a policeman’s heel.
  • This is due to falling really hard barefoot and pumping your heel on a hard surface or on a rock.
  • This is much more common than you would think!
  • The best way to treat this is to protect the bottom of the foot and to keep pressure off the bottom of the heel with good orthotics good shoes.
  • If it is extremely bruised and you’re worried about a potential calcaneal fracture, you may benefit from being in the heel walking boot or using any scooter to keep pressure off us.
Bruised Heel Bone Treatment: Causes & Best Home Remedies 2019
A bruised heel can happen from 1 single trauma or from constant irritation while walking every day. This can take months to get better if not treated correctly!

Home Treatment:

  • The real key is identifying which one of these disorders you have.
  • There are also many other disorders that could be causing your bottom of the foot pain.
Calcaneus Bone Spur Bottom of the heel spur
This is a bone spur at the bottom of the heel. This is caused by a condition called plantar fasciitis.
Achilles tendon-bone spur is at the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon inserts.
  • The main thing is, these are likely not surgical diseases. They are not permanent nerve disorders or malignant cancer-like diseases. These are 95% of the time biomechanical injuries.
  • These are biomechanical injuries that need time to get better.
  • There are excellent treatments that can help make all these feel better.

Home treatments to make the bottom of your foot pain feel better:

  • Make the pain feel better: This is where icing comes in handy, and excellent treatment is to freeze a bottle of water in your freezer and roll it at the bottom of your foot. At this is where your tight ligaments of the plantar fascia and the posterior tibial tendon insert. By rolling this on the bottom of your foot for approximately 20 minutes and icing the bottom of your foot, your plantar fascia will feel significantly better. Do this for 20 minutes on it 20 minutes off.
  • Get yourself a good pair of shoes: by avoiding walking barefoot, you will notice that your foot will start to feel better. There is a supportive slipper inside the house and a good supportive shoe, and a lot of your foot pain will start to get better.
  • Limiting your time on your feet: A lot of the time, people think they can fix their foot problems by spending more time on their feet. This is the single biggest mistake we see people make! You will not fix your foot pain by going on longer walks will contain to walk 4 miles per day. Try switching to swimming and biking in the meantime. People think the best exercise for their feet is by walking or running. These are terrible exercises for your feet!
  • Focus on non-weight-bearing exercises: like riding a bike, swimming, stretching, and weightlifting. You can still be in great shape and lose a lot of weight while letting your feet feel better. You are exercising because you want to be in better shape, not to develop an injury that makes you stay off your feet for longer.
  • Get yourself a good pair of orthotics: a podiatrist can help you get a custom pair of orthotics, or you can get an over-the-counter pair of orthotics.
cryosphere for plantar fasciitis pain review
Icing and massaging the bottom of the foot can lead to almost instant pain relief in some people!

Is Foot Surgery Needed?

  • Most of the time, surgery is not needed for the bottom of foot pain conditions.
  • Most of the time, it is a biomechanical condition where you simply have to find out what’s going on let it heal.
  • Don’t get stuck in a rut where you continue living in pain and trying to get back to early and then living in more pain.
Shoes for pinky toe sprain and fracture pain
A pair of good supportive shoes with orthotics are the best treatment options for bottom-of-the-foot pain. By getting support, surgery is very likely not needed!
  • It is a tough battle because you do put on weight while you can’t walk or move, but at the same time, if you’re not healed, your foot pain will never get better.
  • This is a hard situation, but it is one that you have to get through. Sometimes a podiatrist can help you with this plan and get you back on your feet. If you do have a specific injury, you can get imaging lab work in a diagnosis by a professional.
  • Only then can you know whether you need surgery or not.

Less Common Bottom of the Heel Causes:

Plantar Fasciitis:

  • This is the most common source of heel and arch pain.
  • It is worse in the morning & better with a massage.
  • This Includes heel spur treatment.

Foot Fat Pad Atrophy:

  • If it feels like you do not have any fat pad cushion in your heel.

Heel Stress Fracture:

  • This gradually onsets in high activity people starting a new activity.
  • It presents over days and weeks as aching deep heel pain.

Posterior Tibial Nerve Entrapment:

  • The posterior tibial nerve runs along the back and inside of the ankle.
  • You will feel numbness, burning, and tingling.

Bruised Heel:

  • This happens after a long-running or a big fall.

Stone Bruise:

  • This is a deep contusion after stepping on a stone.

 Less Common Bottom Of The Foot Arch Pain:

Plantar Fasciitis:

  • This is the most common source of heel and arch pain.
  • It is worse in the morning & better with a massage.

Plantar Fibroma:

  • This is a bump anywhere along your arch. It could be one or multiple.
  • This feels like a pebble under your skin.

Sprained Foot Arch:

  • This can happen when you fall violently.
  • There may be swelling and bruising in the midfoot.

Posterior Tibial Nerve Entrapment:

  • The posterior tibial nerve runs along the back and inside of the ankle.
  • You will feel numbness, burning, and tingling.

Plantar Fascia Strain:

  • If you have severe pain in your arch after a fall or injury.

Foot Cramps At Night:

  •  Foot cramps are the most common muscle spasm in our body.

Ball Of The Foot Pain:

  • This is also known as metatarsalgia.

 Back Of Heel Pain:

This has 4 very common causes:

Traumatic Injury Treatment:

  • If you have a traumatic injury such as a severe bruise or broken bone, or even a ruptured tendon: consider protecting your foot!
  • The best way to do this is, of course, to see your podiatrist and get evaluated with an x-ray and potential MRI or CT scan.
  • If you are unable to do so, it may benefit you to be in a cast, fractured boot, or even keep the weight off of it with a rolling knee scooter or other protective devices.
  • We as podiatrists frequently take patients off work for a very long period of time when they suffer a traumatic injury. Unfortunately, there is no other way around us in labor jobs.
  • If you have a sit-down job, there are ways to get people back to work quicker, but this can be very difficult otherwise.

Fracture boot treatment:

  •  Our favorite fracture boots and their supplies:

Best Fracture Boots & Covers
Best Tall Boot
Best Short Boot
Best Fracture Boot Balance Device
Best Cast Shower Cover
Aircast AirSelect Standard Walker Brace / Walking Boot, Medium
United Ortho USA14115 Short Air Cam Walker Fracture Boot, Medium, Black
Original EVENup™ Shoe Balancer/Leveler - Equalize Limb Length and Reduce Body Strain While Walking (Small)
Wilsco 100% Waterproof Leg Cast Cover for Showering, Reusable Covers for Leg and Foot Surgeries, Cast Covers for Shower Leg, Cast Bag for Shower, Cast Cover for Showering Foot, Sleeve Length 25 in, Ring Diameter 19 cm, Opening Diameter 6 cm ±1-2mm
Price:
$76.35
$46.95
$39.95
$12.99
Overview:
Excellent reviews at 4.6/5 with over 800+ Reviews:
Very good reviews. This is 4.3/5 ratings on over 3,000+ reviews.
Outstanding reviews: 4.3/5 for 1,000+ reviews! Prevents hip, knee and back pain.
Amazing Reviews at 4.6/5 at 500+ reviews. Best reviewed and cost effective bag.
Pros:
It has an air bladder for extra cushion. It is tall for extra support, as well as air bladder.
Excellent lower cost walking boot. With a orthotic and cushion, it really keeps pressure off of your ankle.
This works great to balance the opposite foot. This prevents the back, hip and knees from having any pain.
It is very effective but not perfect. The price is really good and it has excellent reviews.
Cons:
The inner sleeve can ride lower and the plastic around the rim can irritate the boot.
Less support with the less than full length boot. It is more comfortable but less supportive.
Does not work that great for slippers and less supportive shoes.
It can still leak, so be careful!
Crucial Tips:
Make sure your lift the cushioning material along the hard plastic rim. Make sure to keep it pumped up. Use an orthotic and a lift on the other side.
Use a lift for the other foot to prevent back and hip problems. Also use an orthotic for the flat foot bed.
This is very cost effective and well worth it. Just make sure both shoes have good supportive orthotics.
Just be careful with this is not perfect. It can still get wet underneath.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Fracture Boots & Covers
Best Tall Boot
Aircast AirSelect Standard Walker Brace / Walking Boot, Medium
Price:
$76.35
Overview:
Excellent reviews at 4.6/5 with over 800+ Reviews:
Pros:
It has an air bladder for extra cushion. It is tall for extra support, as well as air bladder.
Cons:
The inner sleeve can ride lower and the plastic around the rim can irritate the boot.
Crucial Tips:
Make sure your lift the cushioning material along the hard plastic rim. Make sure to keep it pumped up. Use an orthotic and a lift on the other side.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Fracture Boots & Covers
Best Short Boot
United Ortho USA14115 Short Air Cam Walker Fracture Boot, Medium, Black
Price:
$46.95
Overview:
Very good reviews. This is 4.3/5 ratings on over 3,000+ reviews.
Pros:
Excellent lower cost walking boot. With a orthotic and cushion, it really keeps pressure off of your ankle.
Cons:
Less support with the less than full length boot. It is more comfortable but less supportive.
Crucial Tips:
Use a lift for the other foot to prevent back and hip problems. Also use an orthotic for the flat foot bed.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Fracture Boots & Covers
Best Fracture Boot Balance Device
Original EVENup™ Shoe Balancer/Leveler - Equalize Limb Length and Reduce Body Strain While Walking (Small)
Price:
$39.95
Overview:
Outstanding reviews: 4.3/5 for 1,000+ reviews! Prevents hip, knee and back pain.
Pros:
This works great to balance the opposite foot. This prevents the back, hip and knees from having any pain.
Cons:
Does not work that great for slippers and less supportive shoes.
Crucial Tips:
This is very cost effective and well worth it. Just make sure both shoes have good supportive orthotics.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Fracture Boots & Covers
Best Cast Shower Cover
Wilsco 100% Waterproof Leg Cast Cover for Showering, Reusable Covers for Leg and Foot Surgeries, Cast Covers for Shower Leg, Cast Bag for Shower, Cast Cover for Showering Foot, Sleeve Length 25 in, Ring Diameter 19 cm, Opening Diameter 6 cm ±1-2mm
Price:
$12.99
Overview:
Amazing Reviews at 4.6/5 at 500+ reviews. Best reviewed and cost effective bag.
Pros:
It is very effective but not perfect. The price is really good and it has excellent reviews.
Cons:
It can still leak, so be careful!
Crucial Tips:
Just be careful with this is not perfect. It can still get wet underneath.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Offloading and scooter treatment:

  • These are favorite knee scooters and walking devices:

Best Fracture Scooters
Best Value & Best Seller Knee Rolling Scooter.
Best All Terrain Heavy Duty Scooter.
Best Crutch Free Walking Device.
Best Elevating Specific Postop or Swelling Pillow
KneeRover Economy Knee Scooter Steerable Knee Walker for Adults for Foot Surgery, Broken Ankle, Foot Injuries - Foldable Knee Rover Scooter for Broken Foot Injured Leg Crutch with Dual Brakes (Black)
KneeRover Original Steerable All Terrain Knee Scooter for Adults for Foot Surgery Heavy Duty Knee Walker for Broken Ankle Foot Injuries - Leg Recovery Scooter Best Knee Crutch Alternative (Blue)
iWALK 2.0 Hands Free Crutch - Pain Free Knee Crutch - Alternative to Crutches and Knee Scooters
Cushy Form Wedge Pillows - 8 Inch Leg Pillows for Sleeping, Post-Surgery, Back, Hip and Knee Discomfort w/Washable Cover - White
Price:
$101.99
$253.99
Price not available
$29.99
Overview:
Very good reviews at 4.5/5 with 3,000+ reviews. Great Price.
Excellent overall reviews at 4.4/5 with 1,300+ reviews. Great heavy duty all terrain.
Decent reviews at 3.9/5 with 4,000+ reviews. NOT for everyone!
Very good reviews at 4.7/5 with almost 2,000 Reviews. Simple job but does it well.
Pros:
Great reviews, great price overall, what more can you ask for?
Good for offroad, grass and dirt. This is the better choice for heavy and tall patients over 6 foot and heavy.
This is great for athletic and mobile people. We have found success for younger and more physically capable people.
Great pillow for the first 1-2 weeks after foot or ankle fracture and surgery. Decreased pain and swelling.
Cons:
Least durable and no real off-road capabilities.
It is more costly than the economy version.
DO NOT get this if you are older, have poor balance and poor mobility. Higher fall risk.
Basically it is a pillow that costs $50, if you are tight on money, don’t get it.
Crucial Tips:
These can be tough on the knee and the lower back. Combine with physical therapy.
If you are a bigger person at over 6ft tall, consider this. If you need to be at work or outside, this is great option.
This is better for very mobile and physically capable people. Do not get this if you have poor weight control or poor balance.
It can be very effective and does a great job, but if you are tight on cash, use it on a better boot or scooter.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Fracture Scooters
Best Value & Best Seller Knee Rolling Scooter.
KneeRover Economy Knee Scooter Steerable Knee Walker for Adults for Foot Surgery, Broken Ankle, Foot Injuries - Foldable Knee Rover Scooter for Broken Foot Injured Leg Crutch with Dual Brakes (Black)
Price:
$101.99
Overview:
Very good reviews at 4.5/5 with 3,000+ reviews. Great Price.
Pros:
Great reviews, great price overall, what more can you ask for?
Cons:
Least durable and no real off-road capabilities.
Crucial Tips:
These can be tough on the knee and the lower back. Combine with physical therapy.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Fracture Scooters
Best All Terrain Heavy Duty Scooter.
KneeRover Original Steerable All Terrain Knee Scooter for Adults for Foot Surgery Heavy Duty Knee Walker for Broken Ankle Foot Injuries - Leg Recovery Scooter Best Knee Crutch Alternative (Blue)
Price:
$253.99
Overview:
Excellent overall reviews at 4.4/5 with 1,300+ reviews. Great heavy duty all terrain.
Pros:
Good for offroad, grass and dirt. This is the better choice for heavy and tall patients over 6 foot and heavy.
Cons:
It is more costly than the economy version.
Crucial Tips:
If you are a bigger person at over 6ft tall, consider this. If you need to be at work or outside, this is great option.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Fracture Scooters
Best Crutch Free Walking Device.
iWALK 2.0 Hands Free Crutch - Pain Free Knee Crutch - Alternative to Crutches and Knee Scooters
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Decent reviews at 3.9/5 with 4,000+ reviews. NOT for everyone!
Pros:
This is great for athletic and mobile people. We have found success for younger and more physically capable people.
Cons:
DO NOT get this if you are older, have poor balance and poor mobility. Higher fall risk.
Crucial Tips:
This is better for very mobile and physically capable people. Do not get this if you have poor weight control or poor balance.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Fracture Scooters
Best Elevating Specific Postop or Swelling Pillow
Cushy Form Wedge Pillows - 8 Inch Leg Pillows for Sleeping, Post-Surgery, Back, Hip and Knee Discomfort w/Washable Cover - White
Price:
$29.99
Overview:
Very good reviews at 4.7/5 with almost 2,000 Reviews. Simple job but does it well.
Pros:
Great pillow for the first 1-2 weeks after foot or ankle fracture and surgery. Decreased pain and swelling.
Cons:
Basically it is a pillow that costs $50, if you are tight on money, don’t get it.
Crucial Tips:
It can be very effective and does a great job, but if you are tight on cash, use it on a better boot or scooter.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Best Product Options:

  • There are usually two phases to the bottom of the foot pain treatment.
  • The two phases of treatment include controlling the acute inflammation and correcting the biomechanics, which led to the problem in the first place.
  • If the tendons and ligaments are inflamed, they are almost frozen in place and cannot function properly.
  • Once the inflammation is decreased, we need to correct the biomechanical causes to ensure that they can never become overworked and inflamed again!
  • This doesn’t matter whether it’s plantar fasciitis, plantar fibroma, the sore bottom of the foot, or even Achilles tendon pain. Treatment is all roughly very similar.

Control Inflammation:

Massage & Ice Products:

  • Ice is an excellent option that can be safe for almost everyone.
  • There is some debate whether icing is worth doing, but for chronic pain, this can help limit the need for medications and keep your options open.
  • This works great for your arch, less for the ball of the foot.
  • The more muscle and ligament tissue there is, the better ice will work there.

Best Foot & Ankle Manual Massage Devices:
Best Premium Massage Roller
Most Cost Effective Massage Roller.
Cost Effective Freezable Massage Roller.
Recoup Fitness Cryosphere Cold Massage Roller - 6 Hours Cold Relief - Ice Cup - Myofascial Release- Great for Recovery - Free Rolling Removable Ball - Deep Tissue Massage - Pain Relief - Ice Pack
TheraFlow Compact Foot Roller for Plantar Fasciitis Relief - Portable and Small Foot Massager for Neuropathy | Targets Foot Pain with Reflexology | Travel Size Foot Massager for Plantar Fasciitis
THERABAND Foot Roller for Foot Relief, Massage Ball Roller for Arch Discomfort, Plantar Fasciitis Treatment, Heel Spurs Reliever, Tired Feet, Best Foot Massager with Ridges for Self Myofascial Release
Price:
Price not available
$8.99
$11.99
Overview:
Premium freezable metal ball that stays cold for up to 6 hours. Great for plantar fascia, neck, shoulders and calf muscles.
Amazing Price, Great Reviews – Non-Freezable Massage Rolling Stick
Great price and it is freezable. Budget friendly freezable massage roller.
Pros:
Great reviews – near 5 star. Stays cold for a long time with deep penetrating plantar fascia massage. Used by professional athletes. Stays cold for HOURS!
Great for what it does. You roll it back and forth along your plantar fascia massaging the swelling and irritation out. Decreases pain. Thousands of 5 star reviews on Amazon.
Excellent reviews. It massages and ices, so it is a step up over the massage rollers. Near 5 star reviews with >500 reviews.
Cons:
More expensive than some of the other options, but near perfect reviews.
Is not freezable like the other two options. Massaging a sore muscle without the cold sensation can be very painful and render it useless to you if really sore.
It does a great job doing what it is supposed to do. Main downside is that it does not stay cold as long as the premium metal ball.
Important Tips:
Use it with a sock to start (could be too cold). Massaging and icing definitely loosens you up and makes you feel better, but you still have to prevent the pain in the first place. You still need stretching, orthotics and good shoes to prevent the initial damage.
Two things: Without the freezing component, it may be really painful for a very sore arch (So make sure to use ICE also). Also this only reduces pain, it does not stop the cause! You still need good orthotics, shoes and stretching to stop the pain in the first place!
Start with socks at first, especially if you have peripheral neuropathy => don’t freeze your foot! Remember that you still need good orthotics, good shoes and inserts as well as temporary activity reduction.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot & Ankle Manual Massage Devices:
Best Premium Massage Roller
Recoup Fitness Cryosphere Cold Massage Roller - 6 Hours Cold Relief - Ice Cup - Myofascial Release- Great for Recovery - Free Rolling Removable Ball - Deep Tissue Massage - Pain Relief - Ice Pack
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Premium freezable metal ball that stays cold for up to 6 hours. Great for plantar fascia, neck, shoulders and calf muscles.
Pros:
Great reviews – near 5 star. Stays cold for a long time with deep penetrating plantar fascia massage. Used by professional athletes. Stays cold for HOURS!
Cons:
More expensive than some of the other options, but near perfect reviews.
Important Tips:
Use it with a sock to start (could be too cold). Massaging and icing definitely loosens you up and makes you feel better, but you still have to prevent the pain in the first place. You still need stretching, orthotics and good shoes to prevent the initial damage.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot & Ankle Manual Massage Devices:
Most Cost Effective Massage Roller.
TheraFlow Compact Foot Roller for Plantar Fasciitis Relief - Portable and Small Foot Massager for Neuropathy | Targets Foot Pain with Reflexology | Travel Size Foot Massager for Plantar Fasciitis
Price:
$8.99
Overview:
Amazing Price, Great Reviews – Non-Freezable Massage Rolling Stick
Pros:
Great for what it does. You roll it back and forth along your plantar fascia massaging the swelling and irritation out. Decreases pain. Thousands of 5 star reviews on Amazon.
Cons:
Is not freezable like the other two options. Massaging a sore muscle without the cold sensation can be very painful and render it useless to you if really sore.
Important Tips:
Two things: Without the freezing component, it may be really painful for a very sore arch (So make sure to use ICE also). Also this only reduces pain, it does not stop the cause! You still need good orthotics, shoes and stretching to stop the pain in the first place!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot & Ankle Manual Massage Devices:
Cost Effective Freezable Massage Roller.
THERABAND Foot Roller for Foot Relief, Massage Ball Roller for Arch Discomfort, Plantar Fasciitis Treatment, Heel Spurs Reliever, Tired Feet, Best Foot Massager with Ridges for Self Myofascial Release
Price:
$11.99
Overview:
Great price and it is freezable. Budget friendly freezable massage roller.
Pros:
Excellent reviews. It massages and ices, so it is a step up over the massage rollers. Near 5 star reviews with >500 reviews.
Cons:
It does a great job doing what it is supposed to do. Main downside is that it does not stay cold as long as the premium metal ball.
Important Tips:
Start with socks at first, especially if you have peripheral neuropathy => don’t freeze your foot! Remember that you still need good orthotics, good shoes and inserts as well as temporary activity reduction.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Menthol Based Gels:

  • Biofreeze is one of our favorites.
  • These gels have been studied to work 2x as long as ice.
  • This works great for the ball of the foot.
  • This can be very effective for the bottom of the heel and Achilles tendon sore regions.

Best Foot & Ankle Muscle/Ligament Pain Relief Products
Best & Proven Pain Relieving Gel.
Roll On Version of Biofreeze Gel.
A giant container of value size biofreeze.
Menthol Based Ointment with Hemp Extract
Biofreeze Pain Relief Gel, Arthritis Pain Reliver, Knee & Lower Back Pain Relief, Sore Muscle Relief, Neck Pain Relief, Pharmacist Recommended, FSA Eligible, 3 Pack (4 FL OZ Biofreeze Menthol Gel)
Biofreeze Pain Relief Roll-On, 3 oz. Roll-On, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, & Powerful Topical Pain Reliever, Pack of 3 (Packaging May Vary)
Biofreeze Menthol Pain Relieving Gel 1 Gallon Bottle With Pump Topical Pain Relief For Sore Muscles, Arthritis, Backache, And Joint Pain, Original Green Formula, (Packaging May Vary)
HEMPACTIV Joint & Muscle Relief Cream, Infused with Hemp, Menthol, MSM & Arnica, Soothe Discomfort in Your Back, Muscles, Joints, Neck, Shoulder, Knee, Nerves - 2 Fl Oz
Price:
Price not available
$28.60
$149.99
$19.99
Overview:
The Proven and Scientifically Published Menthol Based Gel
Same as biofreeze gel, but the roll-on is prefered by some people for their feet, less messy.
8.1 lbs(3.67 kg) of Value Sized Biofreeze!
This is an alternative cream: Basically Biofreeze + hemp extract.
Pros:
Scientifically proven to loosen up and relief pain up to 2x longer than Ice. Less effort than ice and great reviews. 900+ 5 star reviews on Amazon.
The roll-on application of this biofreeze can be easier to apply. Less overall mess.
If you know you already love it and trust the reviews. This is a great value that lasts a long time.
It has great reviews, loved by the all natural crowd. 100s of 5 star reviews with a near perfect rating.
Cons:
Don’t put this on open sores or mucous membranes, it will burn! It can run out quick and doesn’t prevent pain, just helps it.
Not as easy to spread in other areas, main difference is the roll on applicator, same solution.
A gigantic bottle that could fall over and injure you! Seriously this could be too big in some situations.
Basically looks like menthol(active Biofreeze ingredient), but with hemp extract SKYROCKETING the price.
Important Tips:
Menthol is the active ingredient in this and other hemp based creams. It works similar to ice, but once you apply it you can just move on rather than waiting 20 minutes. **Works great to get your through the night if you have pain sleeping**
Roll-on method is best for the bottom of the feet. No other real advantage. Most patients like it prior to bed for easy sleeping without foot pain.
If you know you love it, this stuff works all over the sore areas in your body not just your foot. I have had many people get me to order this for them in the past and LOVED IT!
The hemp extract is almost nothing and likely a marketing gimmick. It’s basically Biofreeze with some hemp extract raising the price.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot & Ankle Muscle/Ligament Pain Relief Products
Best & Proven Pain Relieving Gel.
Biofreeze Pain Relief Gel, Arthritis Pain Reliver, Knee & Lower Back Pain Relief, Sore Muscle Relief, Neck Pain Relief, Pharmacist Recommended, FSA Eligible, 3 Pack (4 FL OZ Biofreeze Menthol Gel)
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
The Proven and Scientifically Published Menthol Based Gel
Pros:
Scientifically proven to loosen up and relief pain up to 2x longer than Ice. Less effort than ice and great reviews. 900+ 5 star reviews on Amazon.
Cons:
Don’t put this on open sores or mucous membranes, it will burn! It can run out quick and doesn’t prevent pain, just helps it.
Important Tips:
Menthol is the active ingredient in this and other hemp based creams. It works similar to ice, but once you apply it you can just move on rather than waiting 20 minutes. **Works great to get your through the night if you have pain sleeping**
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot & Ankle Muscle/Ligament Pain Relief Products
Roll On Version of Biofreeze Gel.
Biofreeze Pain Relief Roll-On, 3 oz. Roll-On, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, & Powerful Topical Pain Reliever, Pack of 3 (Packaging May Vary)
Price:
$28.60
Overview:
Same as biofreeze gel, but the roll-on is prefered by some people for their feet, less messy.
Pros:
The roll-on application of this biofreeze can be easier to apply. Less overall mess.
Cons:
Not as easy to spread in other areas, main difference is the roll on applicator, same solution.
Important Tips:
Roll-on method is best for the bottom of the feet. No other real advantage. Most patients like it prior to bed for easy sleeping without foot pain.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot & Ankle Muscle/Ligament Pain Relief Products
A giant container of value size biofreeze.
Biofreeze Menthol Pain Relieving Gel 1 Gallon Bottle With Pump Topical Pain Relief For Sore Muscles, Arthritis, Backache, And Joint Pain, Original Green Formula, (Packaging May Vary)
Price:
$149.99
Overview:
8.1 lbs(3.67 kg) of Value Sized Biofreeze!
Pros:
If you know you already love it and trust the reviews. This is a great value that lasts a long time.
Cons:
A gigantic bottle that could fall over and injure you! Seriously this could be too big in some situations.
Important Tips:
If you know you love it, this stuff works all over the sore areas in your body not just your foot. I have had many people get me to order this for them in the past and LOVED IT!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot & Ankle Muscle/Ligament Pain Relief Products
Menthol Based Ointment with Hemp Extract
HEMPACTIV Joint & Muscle Relief Cream, Infused with Hemp, Menthol, MSM & Arnica, Soothe Discomfort in Your Back, Muscles, Joints, Neck, Shoulder, Knee, Nerves - 2 Fl Oz
Price:
$19.99
Overview:
This is an alternative cream: Basically Biofreeze + hemp extract.
Pros:
It has great reviews, loved by the all natural crowd. 100s of 5 star reviews with a near perfect rating.
Cons:
Basically looks like menthol(active Biofreeze ingredient), but with hemp extract SKYROCKETING the price.
Important Tips:
The hemp extract is almost nothing and likely a marketing gimmick. It’s basically Biofreeze with some hemp extract raising the price.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Massage Sticks:

  • These can work great for loosening your muscles.
  • This allows less tightness and pressure on the ball of your foot.
  • This is very effective for the arch, the gastrocnemius, or calf muscle and for the hamstring and thigh muscles.
  • This also works very well for the gluteus muscles if you are having butt cheek or hip pain.

Leg & Calf Muscle Massage Roller Sticks:
Best Overall Muscle Massage Stick
Best Cost Effective Massage Roller.
Best & Most Affordable Foot Massage Unit
Tiger Tail 18in Massage Stick Portable Roller, Handheld, Deep Tissue Foam Roller, Body Massage and Myofascial Release Tool for Legs, Neck, Calves, Thighs, Shins & Back, The Original 18, Made in USA
Top Rated Muscle Roller Massage Stick: A Sports Body Massager Tool-Release Myofascial Trigger Points, Reduce Muscle Soreness, Tightness and Leg Cramps, Rub Muscle for Relief and Recovery
TISSCARE Shiatsu Calf Foot Massager Machine with Heat Leg Massager, Deep-Kneading for Tired Calf Leg Arm Plantar Fasciitis Neuropathy, Tired Muscles w/Adjustable bar (Dark Grey)
Price:
$39.95
Price not available
Price not available
Overview:
This is a great option because hair or skin never gets pinched between the wheels. Softer interface.
Great option for an amazing cost. Not as sturdy and comfortable as the tiger tail.
A well reviewed foot massage unit.
Pros:
Best reviews. Hair and skin cannot get pinched. Almost instantly makes you less tender and more flexible. This is a professional grade massage roller.
Amazing reviews for the price point. It essentially does the same job. Muscles feel great afterward. Same overall benefit.
Amazing reviews averaging almost 5 stars. Reasonable price compared to most other units. Relieves swelling and inflammation in your feet naturally.
Cons:
If truly injured (break or tear) this won’t fix your pain. But no real downsides as far as what a massage roller does. Reviews are near perfect.
Wheels and handles can come loose. As a result it can gap and pinch skin and leg hairs. Not as durable as the other roller recommended here.
A more expensive version of manual and ice massage. The extra $ is basically to remove the manual labor yourself if you are OK with that!
Important Tips:
Studies show how effective massage rollers are: Use for 30-60 seconds to loosen up tight muscles, and then you can stretch further short term(1-2 hrs). Great for calf, hamstring, thight and IT band muscle stretching.
Same as for the more expensive one. Studies show the real benefits appear in 30-60 seconds per muscle => less sore and more flexible. That is the time to take advantage and play sports/stay loose. Very proven results.
This can actually help loosen up your calf muscles and foot muscles for a better stretch. So take advantage! You will be less sore and more flexible, but the results disappear after 1-2 hours or so!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Leg & Calf Muscle Massage Roller Sticks:
Best Overall Muscle Massage Stick
Tiger Tail 18in Massage Stick Portable Roller, Handheld, Deep Tissue Foam Roller, Body Massage and Myofascial Release Tool for Legs, Neck, Calves, Thighs, Shins & Back, The Original 18, Made in USA
Price:
$39.95
Overview:
This is a great option because hair or skin never gets pinched between the wheels. Softer interface.
Pros:
Best reviews. Hair and skin cannot get pinched. Almost instantly makes you less tender and more flexible. This is a professional grade massage roller.
Cons:
If truly injured (break or tear) this won’t fix your pain. But no real downsides as far as what a massage roller does. Reviews are near perfect.
Important Tips:
Studies show how effective massage rollers are: Use for 30-60 seconds to loosen up tight muscles, and then you can stretch further short term(1-2 hrs). Great for calf, hamstring, thight and IT band muscle stretching.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Leg & Calf Muscle Massage Roller Sticks:
Best Cost Effective Massage Roller.
Top Rated Muscle Roller Massage Stick: A Sports Body Massager Tool-Release Myofascial Trigger Points, Reduce Muscle Soreness, Tightness and Leg Cramps, Rub Muscle for Relief and Recovery
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Great option for an amazing cost. Not as sturdy and comfortable as the tiger tail.
Pros:
Amazing reviews for the price point. It essentially does the same job. Muscles feel great afterward. Same overall benefit.
Cons:
Wheels and handles can come loose. As a result it can gap and pinch skin and leg hairs. Not as durable as the other roller recommended here.
Important Tips:
Same as for the more expensive one. Studies show the real benefits appear in 30-60 seconds per muscle => less sore and more flexible. That is the time to take advantage and play sports/stay loose. Very proven results.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Leg & Calf Muscle Massage Roller Sticks:
Best & Most Affordable Foot Massage Unit
TISSCARE Shiatsu Calf Foot Massager Machine with Heat Leg Massager, Deep-Kneading for Tired Calf Leg Arm Plantar Fasciitis Neuropathy, Tired Muscles w/Adjustable bar (Dark Grey)
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
A well reviewed foot massage unit.
Pros:
Amazing reviews averaging almost 5 stars. Reasonable price compared to most other units. Relieves swelling and inflammation in your feet naturally.
Cons:
A more expensive version of manual and ice massage. The extra $ is basically to remove the manual labor yourself if you are OK with that!
Important Tips:
This can actually help loosen up your calf muscles and foot muscles for a better stretch. So take advantage! You will be less sore and more flexible, but the results disappear after 1-2 hours or so!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Removing The Stress:

  • The key is to prevent future pain.
  • If you can get rid of the pain and swelling, this will let you start walking normally.
  • If you can walk normally, the vast majority of your pain should gradually start to go away.
  • The best way to ensure that your plantar fascia, foot, and ankle ligaments are not overworked is to support them.
  • The best way to support them is to use great orthotics and great shoes.
  • Some people may also need to rely on supportive ankle braces and other supportive modalities.

Get Great Shoes:

  • Getting a great supportive pair of shoes will make sure that there is pressure removed from the heel and plantar fascia region.
  • This is especially important if you have plantar fasciitis, heel spur pain, or Achilles tendonitis.
  • Consider shoes combined with a good supportive orthotic for the best pain relief!
  • The following link will show you what our favorites are.

Best Podiatrist Recommended Shoes

Get Great Orthotics:

  • These are our recommended orthotics.
  • There are different types of different shoes.
  • Women’s shoes usually need a less bulky orthotic but allow for less correction.
  • A full-length orthotic requires a running shoe, boot, or comfortable walking/dress shoe.
  • We recommend doing everything you can to get a good supportive shoe that can fit a full-length orthotic.
  • This is the best way to maximize your orthotics for great results.
Best Podiatrist Recommended Orthotics
Click this link for the best podiatrist recommended orthotics!

Best Full-Length Orthotics:

  • These will only work in wider shoes or a good supportive running shoe.
  • This will not work in sandals, flats, or most women’s dress shoes.

Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Overall Orthotic For Everything (Medium Thick Fit)
Best Heavy Duty Orthotic (Thickest Fit)
Best SOFTER Choice For Sensitive Feet (Medium Thick Fit)
Best Women’s Orthotics
PowerStep Original Insoles - Arch Pain Relief Orthotics for Tight Shoes - Foot Support for Plantar Fasciitis, Mild Pronation and Foot & Arch Pain - Shoe Inserts for All (M 8-8.5, F 10-10.5)
PowerStep Pinnacle Maxx Orthotic Insoles - Orthotics for Overpronation with Maximum Stability & Comfort - Firm + Flexible Angled Heel Style to Help Flat Feet - Heavy Duty Inserts (M 10-10.5, F 12)
220+ lbs Plantar Fasciitis High Arch Support Insoles Men Women - Flat Feet Orthotic Inserts Standing All Day - Work Boot Shoe Insoles - Shoe Sole Flat Foot Heavy Men
Superfeet All-Purpose Women's High Impact Support Insoles (Berry) - Trim-To-Fit Orthotic Arch Support Inserts for Women's Running Shoes - Professional Grade - Size 8.5-10 Women
Price:
$40.46
Price not available
Price not available
$59.00
Overview:
These work best in shoes with laces and running shoes. Not good for dress shoes or women’s cute shoes.
Biggest and most corrective option. Only use for running shoes or work boots. Not cute shoes.
These are full length inserts, but softer. Great if you can’t tolerate the firmer ones. Best for very sore and sensitive feet.
Great Support & Better Fit
Pros:
Pretty much guaranteed to help you if it fits in your shoes and you give it 2 weeks to get used to. 5,000+ amazon reviews, great track record.
My personal favorite, but not for everyone. Amazing reviews over 3,500. But not for everyone. Only for bigger shoes that can fit them
They are softer and the initial break in time is AMAZING. But longer term benefits are less. >500 Almost 5 star amazon rating.
Sleek, supportive and have a better fit than the orthotics above.
Cons:
Do not wear these in cute or dress shoes!
Bigger and bulkier than all the other ones. You will be dissappointed if you have a cute women’s shoe or dress shoe. This is meant for running shoes and boots.
Great to start with, but don’t correct long term as much as the other ones.
A little bit more expensive.
Crucial Tips:
Ease in to these, 1-2hrs a day. They are like braces for your teeth, they suck at the beginning! But they will make your feet pain free as 1-2 weeks go by. Don’t give up on them after 1 or 2 days. Everyone feels off at the beginning!
This has the most correction, but hardest break in time! IF SENSITIVE, USE A SOFTER PAIR FIRST! But if you get these, you must break them in. Give it 1-2 hours a day, but then you will start to have excellent results. The bad reviews are all people who couldn’t fit it into their shoes and gave up too quickly. You have been WARNED!
If you are very sore, TRY THESE FIRST! These are easiest to break in with initially. If you are very sore and rigid, don’t use the heavy duty ones to start with.
These will have a harder time fitting in flats and pointed shoes.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Overall Orthotic For Everything (Medium Thick Fit)
PowerStep Original Insoles - Arch Pain Relief Orthotics for Tight Shoes - Foot Support for Plantar Fasciitis, Mild Pronation and Foot & Arch Pain - Shoe Inserts for All (M 8-8.5, F 10-10.5)
Price:
$40.46
Overview:
These work best in shoes with laces and running shoes. Not good for dress shoes or women’s cute shoes.
Pros:
Pretty much guaranteed to help you if it fits in your shoes and you give it 2 weeks to get used to. 5,000+ amazon reviews, great track record.
Cons:
Do not wear these in cute or dress shoes!
Crucial Tips:
Ease in to these, 1-2hrs a day. They are like braces for your teeth, they suck at the beginning! But they will make your feet pain free as 1-2 weeks go by. Don’t give up on them after 1 or 2 days. Everyone feels off at the beginning!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Heavy Duty Orthotic (Thickest Fit)
PowerStep Pinnacle Maxx Orthotic Insoles - Orthotics for Overpronation with Maximum Stability & Comfort - Firm + Flexible Angled Heel Style to Help Flat Feet - Heavy Duty Inserts (M 10-10.5, F 12)
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Biggest and most corrective option. Only use for running shoes or work boots. Not cute shoes.
Pros:
My personal favorite, but not for everyone. Amazing reviews over 3,500. But not for everyone. Only for bigger shoes that can fit them
Cons:
Bigger and bulkier than all the other ones. You will be dissappointed if you have a cute women’s shoe or dress shoe. This is meant for running shoes and boots.
Crucial Tips:
This has the most correction, but hardest break in time! IF SENSITIVE, USE A SOFTER PAIR FIRST! But if you get these, you must break them in. Give it 1-2 hours a day, but then you will start to have excellent results. The bad reviews are all people who couldn’t fit it into their shoes and gave up too quickly. You have been WARNED!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best SOFTER Choice For Sensitive Feet (Medium Thick Fit)
220+ lbs Plantar Fasciitis High Arch Support Insoles Men Women - Flat Feet Orthotic Inserts Standing All Day - Work Boot Shoe Insoles - Shoe Sole Flat Foot Heavy Men
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
These are full length inserts, but softer. Great if you can’t tolerate the firmer ones. Best for very sore and sensitive feet.
Pros:
They are softer and the initial break in time is AMAZING. But longer term benefits are less. >500 Almost 5 star amazon rating.
Cons:
Great to start with, but don’t correct long term as much as the other ones.
Crucial Tips:
If you are very sore, TRY THESE FIRST! These are easiest to break in with initially. If you are very sore and rigid, don’t use the heavy duty ones to start with.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Women’s Orthotics
Superfeet All-Purpose Women's High Impact Support Insoles (Berry) - Trim-To-Fit Orthotic Arch Support Inserts for Women's Running Shoes - Professional Grade - Size 8.5-10 Women
Price:
$59.00
Overview:
Great Support & Better Fit
Pros:
Sleek, supportive and have a better fit than the orthotics above.
Cons:
A little bit more expensive.
Crucial Tips:
These will have a harder time fitting in flats and pointed shoes.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:

  • These are a great choice for dress orthotics.

Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
Best Fitting Dress Shoe Orthotic (3/4″)
Best Full Length Dress Orthotic.
Great Heavy Duty Insole for Men
Powerstep Signature Dress 3/4-Length Insoles – Dress Shoe Insoles for Men and Women
Powerstep Signature Dress Full-Length Insoles for Men and Women
Superfeet Casual Men's Easyfit Insoles - Comfort Shoe Inserts for Men - Anti-Fatigue Orthotic Insoles for Dress Shoes - Professional Grade - Size 7.5-9 Men
Price:
Price not available
Price not available
$34.92
Overview:
This is my top choice due to best fit. It is a little less supportive than full length, but fit is the key in dress shoes!
Best option if you can fit a full length orthotic. This does give you most control.
Great price and heavy duty insole for Oxford shoes.
Pros:
Excellent overall fit. This will fit in almost every dress shoe. Excellent reviews and reasonable cost overall. Can’t go wrong in most cases.
Great color dress option. Not the most corrective, but very color and dress appropriate. Great Reviews. Better correction and relief than the 3/4″ length.
These fit in most shoes and have really good predictable results
Cons:
Less correction than full length and heavy duty orthotics.
These can have a poor fit in in some shoes. If you have tight shoes, DO NOT BUY the full length orthotic! You have been warned.
They are not full length and thus do not provide as much support
Crucial Tips:
If you haven’t used dress orthotics before, get this one and avoid poor fit. If you wear dress shoes every day with room, the full length might give you more support.
This is will work great in most men’s shoes that are not pointy. If you have a rounded toe box, this will probably work well. If a tight shoe go with the 3/4″ length.
Get these for Oxford and pointed shoes. This will provide best results.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
Best Fitting Dress Shoe Orthotic (3/4″)
Powerstep Signature Dress 3/4-Length Insoles – Dress Shoe Insoles for Men and Women
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
This is my top choice due to best fit. It is a little less supportive than full length, but fit is the key in dress shoes!
Pros:
Excellent overall fit. This will fit in almost every dress shoe. Excellent reviews and reasonable cost overall. Can’t go wrong in most cases.
Cons:
Less correction than full length and heavy duty orthotics.
Crucial Tips:
If you haven’t used dress orthotics before, get this one and avoid poor fit. If you wear dress shoes every day with room, the full length might give you more support.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
Best Full Length Dress Orthotic.
Powerstep Signature Dress Full-Length Insoles for Men and Women
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Best option if you can fit a full length orthotic. This does give you most control.
Pros:
Great color dress option. Not the most corrective, but very color and dress appropriate. Great Reviews. Better correction and relief than the 3/4″ length.
Cons:
These can have a poor fit in in some shoes. If you have tight shoes, DO NOT BUY the full length orthotic! You have been warned.
Crucial Tips:
This is will work great in most men’s shoes that are not pointy. If you have a rounded toe box, this will probably work well. If a tight shoe go with the 3/4″ length.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
Great Heavy Duty Insole for Men
Superfeet Casual Men's Easyfit Insoles - Comfort Shoe Inserts for Men - Anti-Fatigue Orthotic Insoles for Dress Shoes - Professional Grade - Size 7.5-9 Men
Price:
$34.92
Overview:
Great price and heavy duty insole for Oxford shoes.
Pros:
These fit in most shoes and have really good predictable results
Cons:
They are not full length and thus do not provide as much support
Crucial Tips:
Get these for Oxford and pointed shoes. This will provide best results.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Best 3/4 Length Orthotics:

  • These are great options for women’s dress shoes and thinner shoes.
  • These are not the most supportive pair of orthotics.

Best Flat Shoe (Non-Lace Up) Orthotics:
Best Choice For Tight Women’s Shoes or High Heels..
Powerstep SlenderFit Fashion Orthotic-W
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
These are the best fitting for the most narrow shoes. Some but not great correction.
Pros:
They will fit in even the tightest shoes! Guaranteed to make you feel better, but you know what you are getting in a tight shoes. Great reviews and price.
Cons:
At the end of the day high heels and slender orthotics help, but never cure all your pain. Make the best of a painful shoe!
Crucial Tips:
**WARNING***: If your shoe almost just barely fits onto your foot, this WILL NOT FIT! Be aware, it still needs a small amount of space to fit.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Flat Shoe (Non-Lace Up) Orthotics:
Best Choice For Tight Women’s Shoes or High Heels..
Powerstep SlenderFit Fashion Orthotic-W
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
These are the best fitting for the most narrow shoes. Some but not great correction.
Pros:
They will fit in even the tightest shoes! Guaranteed to make you feel better, but you know what you are getting in a tight shoes. Great reviews and price.
Cons:
At the end of the day high heels and slender orthotics help, but never cure all your pain. Make the best of a painful shoe!
Crucial Tips:
**WARNING***: If your shoe almost just barely fits onto your foot, this WILL NOT FIT! Be aware, it still needs a small amount of space to fit.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Get A Great Dynamic Stretch:

  • It is possible to stretch on your own, but these products can also really help!
  • This will take pressure off of the ball of your foot.
  • We personally prefer this method of stretching.

Best Standing Foot & Ankle Stretching Devices:
Best Premium Plantar Fascia Stretching Device.
Best Budget Plantar Fascia Stretching Stretch Device.
Best Stationary Calf Stretching Device.
Best Hamstring Stretching Device
Rolling With It Premium Calf Stretcher and Foot Rocker for Plantar Fasciitis Relief, Achilles Tendonitis, Increase Mobility and Flexibility, Improve Range of Motion With our Foot Stretcher
North American Healthcare Foot Rocker Blue -Optimal Foot Position for Flexibility, Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and other Chronic Conditions
Professional Wooden Slant Board, Adjustable Incline Calf Stretch Slantboard with Full Non-Slip Surface, 16 inches x 12.5 inches, 5 Positions (350 LB Capacity) (Edition 1)
IdealStretch - The Original Hamstring, Lower Back & Calf Stretching Device - Ultimate Pain Relief & Deep Knee Extension Tool - Ideal Stretch Hamstring Stretcher Machine for Enhanced Flexibility
Price:
$37.97
$24.41
$39.99
$69.95
Overview:
Great Stretching Device While Standing. (4.9 Amazon Rating)
Plastic and Lighter Plantar Fascia & Achilles Stretching Device.
Premium Best Rated Wood Ankle Stretch Device.
Uses gravity to stretch your hamstring for you. Great reviews and track record.
Pros:
Very sturdy and durable. Great bottom grip and weight so it won’t slide on you. Perfect 5 star review on Amazon.
Amazing cost, still works and 1,300+ 5 star reviews. Works great overall and gives you the same stretch.
Near perfect 4.8 star review on Amazon. Great sturdy device that stretches your calf and hamstring. All you have to do is lean forward. Can be very effective.
Reviews on Amazon are >4.5 overall with hundreds of reviews. It uses gravity to stretch for you, allows you to also use your hips. Gets great results.
Cons:
More expensive and built like a tank = more weight. If you can’t balance well or support yourself it could be dangerous.
The plastic and less bulk/grip makes it more dangerous to slip. Less premium feel to it.
Nothing wrong with the product, as the reviews suggest, but at the end of the day you can do this stuff yourself (just a little bit harder).
These are stretches that you realistically can do on your own. If budget is tight, this is not worth it. If you need help with hamstring stretching, it can make all the difference.
Important Tips:
Make sure you can balance yourself well against a counter/railing. Do only one foot at a time to prevent falling. Uses your body weight to stretch for you.
Even more important to balance yourself well with this device, make sure you don’t injure yourself with this thing! Still gives you a great stretch to the area.
Make sure you balance yourself on a counter/railing. You need to keep up with this daily at least 15-30 second x 3 or so per morning. It doesn’t stretch for you!
Need to do 3-5 stretches per day 15-30 seconds. You should notice a massive difference to knee and hamstring tightness. You can massage roll ahead to time for better results for 30-60 seconds.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Standing Foot & Ankle Stretching Devices:
Best Premium Plantar Fascia Stretching Device.
Rolling With It Premium Calf Stretcher and Foot Rocker for Plantar Fasciitis Relief, Achilles Tendonitis, Increase Mobility and Flexibility, Improve Range of Motion With our Foot Stretcher
Price:
$37.97
Overview:
Great Stretching Device While Standing. (4.9 Amazon Rating)
Pros:
Very sturdy and durable. Great bottom grip and weight so it won’t slide on you. Perfect 5 star review on Amazon.
Cons:
More expensive and built like a tank = more weight. If you can’t balance well or support yourself it could be dangerous.
Important Tips:
Make sure you can balance yourself well against a counter/railing. Do only one foot at a time to prevent falling. Uses your body weight to stretch for you.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Standing Foot & Ankle Stretching Devices:
Best Budget Plantar Fascia Stretching Stretch Device.
North American Healthcare Foot Rocker Blue -Optimal Foot Position for Flexibility, Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and other Chronic Conditions
Price:
$24.41
Overview:
Plastic and Lighter Plantar Fascia & Achilles Stretching Device.
Pros:
Amazing cost, still works and 1,300+ 5 star reviews. Works great overall and gives you the same stretch.
Cons:
The plastic and less bulk/grip makes it more dangerous to slip. Less premium feel to it.
Important Tips:
Even more important to balance yourself well with this device, make sure you don’t injure yourself with this thing! Still gives you a great stretch to the area.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Standing Foot & Ankle Stretching Devices:
Best Stationary Calf Stretching Device.
Professional Wooden Slant Board, Adjustable Incline Calf Stretch Slantboard with Full Non-Slip Surface, 16 inches x 12.5 inches, 5 Positions (350 LB Capacity) (Edition 1)
Price:
$39.99
Overview:
Premium Best Rated Wood Ankle Stretch Device.
Pros:
Near perfect 4.8 star review on Amazon. Great sturdy device that stretches your calf and hamstring. All you have to do is lean forward. Can be very effective.
Cons:
Nothing wrong with the product, as the reviews suggest, but at the end of the day you can do this stuff yourself (just a little bit harder).
Important Tips:
Make sure you balance yourself on a counter/railing. You need to keep up with this daily at least 15-30 second x 3 or so per morning. It doesn’t stretch for you!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Standing Foot & Ankle Stretching Devices:
Best Hamstring Stretching Device
IdealStretch - The Original Hamstring, Lower Back & Calf Stretching Device - Ultimate Pain Relief & Deep Knee Extension Tool - Ideal Stretch Hamstring Stretcher Machine for Enhanced Flexibility
Price:
$69.95
Overview:
Uses gravity to stretch your hamstring for you. Great reviews and track record.
Pros:
Reviews on Amazon are >4.5 overall with hundreds of reviews. It uses gravity to stretch for you, allows you to also use your hips. Gets great results.
Cons:
These are stretches that you realistically can do on your own. If budget is tight, this is not worth it. If you need help with hamstring stretching, it can make all the difference.
Important Tips:
Need to do 3-5 stretches per day 15-30 seconds. You should notice a massive difference to knee and hamstring tightness. You can massage roll ahead to time for better results for 30-60 seconds.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Get A Great Static Stretch:

  • These devices are great for stretching while you are resting.
  • This will also help take pressure off of the ball of your foot.
  • This works great for plantar fasciitis.
  • It can be used while watching TV or at night time.

Best Night & Stretch Splint Products:
Most Cost Effective Night Splint (Not Best for Sleeping).
Best Actual Night Splint (For Night Time Use)
Best Price & Light Support Night Splint
Vive Hard Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint for Men & Women - Stabilizer Brace Relieves Inflammation - Foot Support Boot Features Adjustable Hook and Loop Straps for Achilles Pain Relief
Procare ProWedge Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint - Medium
Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint Foot Drop Orthotic Supports Kit Adjustable Dorsal Night Splint Support Sleep, Recovery, Tendonitis, Arthritis with Hard Spiky Massage Ball (Black)
Price:
$39.99
$61.68
Price not available
Overview:
Hard Night Splint -** Use it before going to bed for 20-30 minutes**
Best & most comfortable splint for actual night time use.
Top of the foot softer & more gentle splint.
Pros:
This is an amazing device with the highest amazon rating. Has 2 great foot wedges that bend your big toe up and lock your foot in. Great at what it does.
This has excellent reviews(better than the hard splint), less foot numbness and soreness in the ball of your foot. Very soft and comfortable.
Most people can tolerate this one during the night, but only because it stretches you less! That might be a good thing if you can set it and forget it for 6-8 hours at night.
Cons:
Hard to use at while sleeping, so don’t use it that way! Easy to use it incorrectly if you don’t use the foot wedges correctly. Your big toe should be angled up to lock your foot in.
It actually stretches you less (that’s why you are able to wear it all night). It is more expensive.
Basically it is more tolerable because it is weaker. This less results in more time.
Important Tips:
**Must use the foot wedge in the front to angle your toes up. This locks your foot from twisting out rather than stretching through the Achilles tendon – This is the KEY!**
If you prefer to actually wear it at night then this is the BEST option. It does work, but this is for those with very little time and can fall asleep in it!
This is meant only for sleeping because to get results you need to wear it a lot longer than the other braces. Use it only if you are very sensitive.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Night & Stretch Splint Products:
Most Cost Effective Night Splint (Not Best for Sleeping).
Vive Hard Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint for Men & Women - Stabilizer Brace Relieves Inflammation - Foot Support Boot Features Adjustable Hook and Loop Straps for Achilles Pain Relief
Price:
$39.99
Overview:
Hard Night Splint -** Use it before going to bed for 20-30 minutes**
Pros:
This is an amazing device with the highest amazon rating. Has 2 great foot wedges that bend your big toe up and lock your foot in. Great at what it does.
Cons:
Hard to use at while sleeping, so don’t use it that way! Easy to use it incorrectly if you don’t use the foot wedges correctly. Your big toe should be angled up to lock your foot in.
Important Tips:
**Must use the foot wedge in the front to angle your toes up. This locks your foot from twisting out rather than stretching through the Achilles tendon – This is the KEY!**
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Night & Stretch Splint Products:
Best Actual Night Splint (For Night Time Use)
Procare ProWedge Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint - Medium
Price:
$61.68
Overview:
Best & most comfortable splint for actual night time use.
Pros:
This has excellent reviews(better than the hard splint), less foot numbness and soreness in the ball of your foot. Very soft and comfortable.
Cons:
It actually stretches you less (that’s why you are able to wear it all night). It is more expensive.
Important Tips:
If you prefer to actually wear it at night then this is the BEST option. It does work, but this is for those with very little time and can fall asleep in it!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Night & Stretch Splint Products:
Best Price & Light Support Night Splint
Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint Foot Drop Orthotic Supports Kit Adjustable Dorsal Night Splint Support Sleep, Recovery, Tendonitis, Arthritis with Hard Spiky Massage Ball (Black)
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Top of the foot softer & more gentle splint.
Pros:
Most people can tolerate this one during the night, but only because it stretches you less! That might be a good thing if you can set it and forget it for 6-8 hours at night.
Cons:
Basically it is more tolerable because it is weaker. This less results in more time.
Important Tips:
This is meant only for sleeping because to get results you need to wear it a lot longer than the other braces. Use it only if you are very sensitive.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Best Podiatrist Recommended Shoes

Best Podiatrist Recommended Orthotics