Are New Balance Sneakers Good for Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue in the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed and painful. This condition is often caused by overuse or improper foot mechanics.

One of the most common treatments for plantar fasciitis is wearing supportive footwear, such as sneakers. New Balance sneakers are often recommended for people with plantar fasciitis, but are they really good for this condition? Let's take a closer look.

New Balance Technology for Plantar Fasciitis

New Balance is a popular athletic shoe brand that offers a wide range of sneakers for various foot conditions, including plantar fasciitis. Their sneakers are designed with advanced technology to provide maximum support and comfort for people with this condition.

One of the key technologies used in New Balance sneakers is the Fresh Foam midsole. This provides a soft and cushioned feel, which helps to absorb shock and reduce stress on the plantar fascia. Additionally, New Balance sneakers often feature a stability design that helps to prevent overpronation and provide better foot alignment.

Choosing the Right New Balance Sneakers for Plantar Fasciitis

While New Balance sneakers are generally considered good for plantar fasciitis, it is important to choose the right style and fit for your specific needs. Consider the following factors when choosing New Balance sneakers for plantar fasciitis:

Arch support: Look for sneakers with good arch support to help distribute weight evenly across your foot.

Cushioning: Choose sneakers with ample cushioning to reduce stress on the plantar fascia.

Stability: Look for sneakers with a stability design to prevent overpronation and provide better foot alignment.

Fit: Make sure the sneakers fit well and offer enough space in the toe box to prevent pressure on the plantar fascia.

Other Tips for Managing Plantar Fasciitis

While wearing supportive footwear, such as New Balance sneakers, can help manage plantar fasciitis, there are other tips you can follow to reduce pain and inflammation:

Stretching: Perform regular stretches for your calves, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia to help prevent tightness and injury.

Icing: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time to reduce pain and inflammation.

Rest: Avoid high-impact activities that may exacerbate your symptoms and rest your feet when possible.

Orthotics: Consider using custom or over-the-counter orthotics to provide additional support and cushioning for your feet.

The Bottom Line

New Balance sneakers are generally considered good for plantar fasciitis due to their advanced technology and supportive design. However, it is important to choose the right style and fit for your individual needs. Along with wearing supportive footwear, it is also important to follow other tips for managing plantar fasciitis, such as stretching, icing, resting, and using orthotics. With the right treatment, most people with plantar fasciitis can manage their symptoms and return to their daily activities.