These days there are more and more cases of heel pain, mainly plantar fasciitis, among regular runners, walkers, and people who are just starting out on an exercise program. In fact, it is one of the most common foot issues there is. Plantar fasciitis starts very deep in the foot on the heel bone or in the fascia, which is the connective tissue in the foot. This thick strip of tissue covers all of the bones in the bottom of the foot. The fascia can become inflamed or irritated, causing pain in either the heel or the arch. Plantar fasciitis can also occur if bone spurs grow on the heel bone. These types of heel problems occur mostly in people over 40, and especially in women, who tend to wear inappropriate shoes.
The people at New Balance recommend shoes with soft, cushioned heels and a considerable arch. If you are a runner or you walk every day for exercise, you definitely don’t want to have to give up your routine because your feet hurt. Among the dozens of models of running and walking shoes that New Balance makes, there are some that, while not necessarily specifically designed for people with plantar fasciitis, can significantly ease the heel and pain associated with this condition.
For running:
· The men’s and women’s 1225 series shoes have several features that are designed to provide extra cushioning, especially in the heel.
· The 1123 shoes are made for people with a low arch.
· The MR1011 and WR1011 can give you a smooth heel strike motion, with less pounding on painful heels. The same is true of the 850 men’s and women’s shoes.
For walking:
· The men’s and women’s 927 series walking shoes are designed to be worn all day to provide relief from pain in the heel and arch.
· The 845 for both men and women come with a removable insert that provides extra cushioning.
New Balance even has a line of shoes for women that can be worn at work called Aravon. They are a dressier shoe, designed with women who have problem feet in mind. These shoes are the most recommended casual dress shoes by doctors.
