Nurses are always on their feet and to keep them protected, choosing the right shoes is important. Due to excessive running or walking, nurses have to bear the pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Prolonged standing can also aggravate the pain on the feet. Shoes are essential to nurses. To choose the best shoes for nurses with plantar fasciitis, let us understand first what plantar fasciitis is.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Without the appropriate footgear and due to excessive running, a nurse would usually feel pain in the bottom of their heels. It is plantar fasciitis that causes such pain. The kind of shoe that you wear will be a big factor to decrease the chances of getting heel and foot pain.
From our research, people who are in their 40s to 60s, have flat feet, obese, and spend many hours standing are at greater risk of plantar fasciitis.
If you walk unusually and if your shoes have thin soles, you are more likely to experience pain-causing plantar fasciitis. If you are experiencing pain when you start walking after resting, it's probably plantar fasciitis.
The plantar fascia is a thick ligament which is connecting your heel to the front of your foot. It helps you walk because it acts as arch support and shock absorber. Shock absorption occurs in coordination with the action of the muscles.
Since nurses work all day long standing and walking, their plantar fascia ligaments are damaged and torn. That is because of too much pressure on their feet. Once the plantar fascia is inflamed, nurses will start feeling the pain on their feet.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
Commonly, too much pressure inflames a person's plantar fascia. The ones who are at high risk are those who stand for extended periods, do exercise without stretching calves, don't wear shoes that support feet, and have flat feet. Those who are obese are more likely to have plantar fasciitis as well. This is probably because of the pressure or force when the foot touches the ground.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The foot pain is a challenge to accomplishing different tasks. Nurses who have plantar fasciitis feel a dull pain. Other symptoms are pain on the bottom of the feet, pain in the arch of the foot, a swollen heel, a tight Achilles tendon, and the pain lasts for months.
Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis
There are several treatments for different conditions. For plantar fasciitis, there's medication, therapy, surgery, and other products to treat it depending on your doctor's recommendation.
For medication, you can take pain relievers such as Ibuprofen and naproxen sodium. That will help to ease the pain caused by plantar fasciitis.
Furthermore, therapies include physical therapy, night splints, and orthotics. In physical therapy, you will undergo a series of exercises. Meanwhile, night splints can help while you are sleeping as it stretches your calf and the arch of your feet. Orthotics, on the other hand, are prescribed by doctors to distribute pressure to your feet.
If any of these will not work, several procedures will be undertaken. There's an injection for temporary pain relief, ultrasonic tissue repair for ultrasound imaging, and extracorporeal shock wave therapy for healing. If the pain is severe and unbearable, your doctor might recommend surgery already. The procedure includes the detachment of your plantar fascia from your heel bone.
Plantar Fasciitis Home Remedies
Choosing the right footwear is one of the remedies. However, you can also do some home remedies after your shift.
1. Apply Ice
Applying ice can greatly reduce inflammation. You can place the right amount of ice packs in a piece of cloth or a towel. You can apply this for fifteen to twenty minutes each time. To make sure it takes effect, apply it thrice or four times a day.
2. Lose Weight
One of the causes of the pain is the extra weight that puts more pressure on your foot specifically on your plantar fascia. If you will try to conduct healthy exercise along with a balanced diet, it will be helpful.
3. Massage with Your Thumb
Try to do a simple massage using your thumb. Give your arches and heels a simple massage to ease the pain. It will help a lot for your quick relief from pain.
4. Use Essential Oils
When you apply simple massage techniques to your foot, use essential oils. Studies say that essential oils are helpful for foot pain since they have anti-inflammatory properties.
While these remedies are helpful, it is always advisable to seek professional help. Doctors may help you with their recommendations. They have more options for proper treatment.
Different Kinds of Nursing Shoes
Every professional has specific needs for shoes. Considering the nature of nursing professionals' work, the kind and quality of shoes should meet their needs. They would usually prefer those shoes that will help reduce the strain and pain. The different shoes offer benefits to you. But the first thing that we should consider is if the shoe properly fits and has the right support.
1. Sneakers or Tennis Shoes
In times of emergency, nurses have to move and run fast. The extremely fast-paced life that they need to experience inside the hospital calls for lightweight and good-quality footwear. Sneakers are best suited for nurses working in the ICU or emergency rooms. The tennis type is also durable and has high quality. Therefore, it is a great choice for those who need them for long-term use. You don't need to buy often because you are ensured that your footwear can last long.
2. Clogs
Clogs are the most convenient and lightweight shoes for nurses. They are usually made out of materials that do not allow the liquid to seep through. Clogs are very easy to wear too, because they have closed heels and closed toes. They are comfortable to wear because they are not too tight. Clogs are slip-resistant too. You are safe wherever you go. Whether it's a slippery or rough surface, you don't have to worry.
3. Slip-on Shoes
These are shoes that do not have laces. The shoes are comfortable too. You just need to slip on and slip off when you need to wear your shoes. These shoes are suitable for proper arch support. If you are in a hurry, you don't need to take much time to prepare. Slip-on shoes are a practical choice for those who have busy and hectic schedules.
Choosing the Best Shoes for Nurses with Plantar Fasciitis?
Each type of shoe can be helpful to nurses. As you know, science is involved in making and designing shoes. You have to understand that not all shoes are suitable for all types of environment. To end up with the right shoes, let us consider some factors. These factors will be essential in making your decisions. The kind of shoes that you wear will be an important factor too in executing your job.
1. Arch and Heel Support
The arch support is one of the key features of the best shoes to prevent plantar fasciitis and to relieve pain. It gives support to the foot and reduces the tension on the fascia. The heel cup should be comfortable to protect the heel bone. The shoe arch may depend on your foot's shape. Look at the description of the shoes. Choose from low, normal, or high arch depending on your needs. In this case, you can maintain the proper alignment of your foot.
2. Customizable Cushioning
It could be painful when the feet hit the ground. In the long run, it can develop much pain. Customizable cushioning allows your feet to stay protected because of the memory foam or materials that give comfort. Memory foam helps in even distribution of balance. When choosing your shoes for work or long shift, make sure that it is structured with memory foam.
The cushioning should provide support inside the midsole. If shoes don't have proper cushioning, it cannot handle impact shock from hard surfaces.
3. Right Fit
There is no need to emphasize the fact that every shoe that we use, especially at work, should be our size. Tight shoes might put you at risk for deformities. This problem needs surgery to be corrected. Meanwhile, shoes that are too big will be very inconvenient on your part when doing your job.
4. Breathable Materials
To avoid blisters, you have to make sure that the shoes you regularly wear have breathable materials. It's for comfortable wear too. Shoes are usually made of leather, rubber, and synthetic materials. But breathable ones are those with mesh uppers.
5. Shock Absorption
Shoes with shock absorption are those with thick rubber outsoles. This is the bottom of the shoes. Thick rubber outsoles give many benefits to nurses. Nurses deal with many kinds of fluid while at work, which can be a hazard for slips and trips; thick outsoles can help as these are slip-resistant.
6. Optimal Flexibility
Three areas such as your forefoot, hindfoot, and midfoot are highly considered when choosing the best shoes for nurses. There should be optimal or adequate flexibility around the forefoot of your shoes. This helps your toes to pivot comfortably.
Moreover, if the midsole is too soft, your foot might even feel more pain. Worse, it can lead to other problems. If the midsole is too stiff, you can't comfortably move. It will be challenging to move around without creating fatigue throughout your muscles.
The 8 Best Shoes for Nurses with Plantar Fasciitis
Female Nurse Shoes
1. Women's Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoes
These Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoes for women are great for nurses because of the breathable mesh fabric that provides air circulation for their feet. Nurses have to deal with a lot of activities and tasks while at work, so it will be helpful if they have a pair of shoes that will be comfortable to wear all day.
Those have a removable insole and can be replaced with medical orthotics. Depending on your condition, you can have an appropriate footbed. This is to have the most suitable support for your situation. Also, the foot's bottom is protected because of cushioning technology. The shoes are great for long periods of standing and walking.
Now, let's move on to the rubber outsole. This shoe's rubber outsole is designed for different surfaces. You will feel secured and protected even on slippery floors and surfaces.
Another great news is that the shoes come in different colors. There are 23 choices to choose from. And since the materials are durable, you can use the shoes for the long-term.
2. Nurse Mates Women's Velocity Medical Professional Shoe
This nurse mates' professional shoe is ideal for every nurse suffering from plantar fasciitis, foot pain, joints fatigue, and ankle pain. It is available in multiple colors. The sole is slip-resistant and ensures that you are safe while walking around the hospital.
The surface is also stain-resistant, so you don't have to worry about stains and dirt. This shoe is also for those who love sneakers but with a professional touch. You can prevent the pain even if you are wearing them for extended periods. The features of the shoe must be recommended by podiatrists.
Podiatrists are qualified professionals for diagnosing and treatment for conditions affecting the foot and ankles. This nurse mates' shoe has the features that most podiatrists recommend. One of its best features is the Align corrective orthotic that keeps your foot in the right posture and balance.
3. Alegria Women's Keli Professional
This Alegria Women's Keli Shoe is highly recommended for nurses who spend most of their time walking and moving while having foot problems. It will not be easy to tolerate pain while doing your job. You need adequate support for your everyday shift.
This shoe has a 1.5 inches heel. Therefore, a good choice when dealing with plantar fasciitis. Except for that, the shoe is also lightweight which is one of the factors needed when choosing the best shoes.
The shoe is guaranteed to have high quality. The upper is stain resistant, the outsole is slip-resistant, and the insole is suede leather. Its weight is 12 oz and the platform height is .75 inch. Also, the footbed is removable and replaceable. You can have your ultimate support and comfort.
However, unlike another shoe, this Alegria Keli Shoe is a little stiffer. Therefore, it might slide down a little. But generally, the shoe is recommended because of its excellent arch support.
4. Women's Bondi 6 Running Shoe
Having a 12-hour shift with prolonged periods of standing is like walking an average of four to five miles. That's why the most common cause of foot pain is plantar fasciitis. It happens when you walk and run for extended periods. Considering your age and your weight, plantar fasciitis can't be prevented especially if you are not wearing the right shoe.
This Hoke one women's running shoe is offering arch support. They are very comfy and soft. The shoe is supportive in all aspects. If you have been suffering from plantar fasciitis, it is highly recommended to use this running shoe for pain relief.
It is very lightweight too with its 1.55 pounds weight. The materials are breathable. A nurse would feel comfortable with the shoe since it is engineered with mesh construction. This means that the shoe is optimized to bring comfort.
Aside from that, it is guaranteed to be soft. Your feet won't feel too much pressure when the shoe hits the ground.
5. Skechers Sport Women's Fashion Sneaker
Skechers have already established its name in producing footwear that meets the needs of different conditions. The designs are excellent and the materials are durable. This means that they are long-lasting and reliable.
When it comes to plantar fasciitis, this Skechers sport women's fashion sneaker is best and recommended. It is a slip-on sneaker that is easy to wear. Also, the shoes are lightweight because they only weigh about 1.15 pounds.
The shoes are best for your foot pain because they have a heel and arch support. You will have a comfortable experience because the shoes have memory foam for balanced and improved walking.
6. Dansko Women's Professional Clog
This Dansko Professional Clog is popular among nurses. They are reliable and easy to wear. They are also great for nurses with plantar fasciitis. The shoes have exceptional arch support, padded instep collar, breathable footbed, and rocker bottom. It's a total package that has all the characteristics that you are looking for.
This shoe is a great choice for those who want to protect their feet from any injury. Nurses with plantar fasciitis would love to wear these lovely shoes. The platform measures .75 inches.
These shoes are known for providing support. Many professionals prefer this shoe because this helps them reduce fatigue and stress on the legs.
Male Nurse Shoes
1. Orthopedic Diabetic Walking Men's Shoes
This orthopedic diabetic walking shoe is one of the best shoes for nurses with plantar fasciitis. They offer the best solution for your plantar fasciitis. They have a lightweight sole with an ergonomic design and superior cushioning.
The orthotic insoles of these shoes feature anatomical arch support. The layers are soft which allows comfortable wear. Aside from that, the shoes are designed to alleviate stress on the joints, enhances stability, and improves walking.
If you have sensitive feet, the shoes have soft uppers and smooth interior lining. These give superior comfort to your feet.
Moreover, the extra toe box offers a solution for bunion and hammertoes. Overall, these shoes are perfect for preventing feet from swelling. Also, they are good for pain relief and foot protection. They have the features that most doctors recommend such as comfortable arch support, maximum protection against pressure points, and stretchable upper.
The company that manufactures such shoes are also known for its durable and high-quality shoes. They have established their name already in making the world's most comfortable men's shoes. The item weighs four pounds which means that it is very lightweight.
2. Reebok Men's ZigWild TR 2-M Running Shoes
The shoe has a zigzag outsole which prevents tripping when walking on slippery surfaces. A nurse who has a hectic schedule will appreciate the features of this shoe.
The shoe is perfect for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis. The materials are breathable. Therefore, a nurse would feel comfortable while wearing it while at work. The quality of the material is durable as well so the shoe is guaranteed to be long-lasting.
The shoe's midsole is shock absorbent as well. Whether a nurse needs to attend indoor and outdoor shifts, this pair is a great choice. The shoes are approximately 2 pounds. Hence, they are very lightweight.
Conclusion
To prevent or reduce plantar fasciitis, the choice of footwear should be aligned with the needs of our feet. One way to help your feet is to realign them. It is a must to look for shoes that are easy to wear and will naturally realign the foot. The most important feature to look for are shock-absorbing heels and sole units, and of course the right level of arch support.
While all eight choices we have recommended are excellent, there has to be one shoe that will be considered best. It should be the one that offers all the needed support and comfort.
In this regard, the most recommended shoe is the Nurse Mates' Professional Shoe. They are the best shoes for nurses with plantar fasciitis since they have almost all the features recommended by podiatrists. They have exceptional arch support, slip-resistant outsole, and breathable foot
Common Questions & Answers
1. Are Danskos bad for plantar fasciitis?
The answer to this is no. Danskos are excellent in arch support. The features and the quality are good. They have extra cushioning in the footbed as well. Therefore, you can wear Danskos if you want since they are also helping you deal with your plantar fasciitis. As long as you choose the shoe that fits properly and gives support to your feet, it will be helpful.
Danskos are one of the best nursing shoes. Most nurses are probably familiar with it since they are a well-known and reputable brand for professionals.
2. What are the best tennis shoes for nurses with plantar fasciitis?
The best tennis shoes for plantar fasciitis are orthopedic men's shoes and Hoka running shoes. They provide arch support and extra protection for your feet. No problem when it comes to bunions and hammertoes as well because they offer toe box solution.
3. What are the best shoes for hospital workers?
Choosing the right shoe will keep your feet away from joint and knee pain. If you are a health worker or you know someone who works in the hospital, look for nursing shoes that will give the right support.
We've already discussed the features that you need to look for when choosing the right footwear. It has to be breathable and comfortable for your feet.