Are Birkenstocks Good for Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain and inflammation in the heel area. It can affect people who spend a lot of time on their feet, such as athletes, nurses, and servers. One way to alleviate the pain of plantar fasciitis is to wear shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning. Birkenstock sandals are known for their comfort and style, but are they good for plantar fasciitis?

The Anatomy of Birkenstock Sandals

Birkenstock sandals are designed with a contoured footbed that conforms to the shape of the wearer's foot. The footbed is made from cork and latex, and is lined with suede for comfort. The arch support of the footbed helps to distribute the wearer's body weight evenly across the foot, which can reduce stress on the plantar fascia, the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. The deep heel cup of the footbed also provides stability and support for the heel.

Research on Birkenstocks and Plantar Fasciitis

There is limited research on the effectiveness of Birkenstock sandals in treating plantar fasciitis. However, a study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research in 2018 found that participants who wore Birkenstock sandals experienced less pain and improved foot function compared to those who wore flat sandals with no arch support. The study also found that Birkenstocks reduced the pressure on the heel area, which can be beneficial for people with plantar fasciitis.

What to Look for in Birkenstock Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis

If you are considering Birkenstock sandals for plantar fasciitis, there are a few things to keep in mind. Look for sandals with a deep heel cup, which can provide stability and prevent excessive pronation (when the foot rolls inward). The sandal should also have a contoured footbed with arch support to help distribute your body weight evenly across your foot. You may also want to choose a sandal with a soft footbed, which can provide additional cushioning and reduce pressure on the heel area.

Tips for Wearing Birkenstock Sandals with Plantar Fasciitis

To get the most benefit from your Birkenstock sandals for plantar fasciitis, there are some tips you should follow. Firstly, wear them for short periods at first and gradually increase the time you wear them as your feet adjust to the support. Make sure your sandals fit properly and are not too loose or too tight. You may also want to consider using a supportive insole or orthotic with your Birkenstocks for additional support.

The Bottom Line

Birkenstock sandals can provide relief for plantar fasciitis sufferers by providing arch support, distributing body weight evenly and reducing pressure on the heel area. While there is limited research on the effectiveness of Birkenstocks for plantar fasciitis, a study has found that they can offer some relief for foot pain and improve foot function. To get the most benefit from Birkenstock sandals for plantar fasciitis, look for sandals with a deep heel cup, a contoured footbed with arch support, and a soft footbed. Wear them for short periods at first and gradually increase the time you wear them as your feet adjust to the support.