Are Crocs good for plantar fasciitis? (2024)

FAQs

Are Crocs good for plantar fasciitis? ›

Should I Wear Crocs for My Plantar Fasciitis? Crocs are a great pair of shoes you can wear if you have plantar fasciitis and you would like to get some of the relief your feet deserve.

Many doctors recommend them to their patients who suffer from plantar foot pain because they are comfortable and supportive. Clogs and Crocs can make long hours on your feet more tolerable if you have plantar fasciitis–as long as they have the right custom arch/heel support and cushioning that fits the condition.

Why We Recommend It. Birkenstocks are a favorite for foot pain thanks to their moldable cork footbed that fits to your foot for complete support. Birkenstock Milano sandals also feature a third strap around the back of the foot for added support, and all three are fully adjustable to keep feet in place.

That said, Crocs lack arch support, so exercising, walking for an extended period of time, or working in them is not recommended by foot specialists. The plastic construction may also lead to sweaty, stinky feet and even blisters.

Hiking shoes

This can help prevent slips and falls, which can — unsurprisingly — make your plantar fasciitis symptoms even worse. In addition, try to find hiking shoes with good ankle support to prevent injury. Try brands like HOKA, Kuru®, Merrell® and Keen®.

Stiletto Heels or Ultra-High Heels

Stiletto heels and other ultra-high heels are one of the worst types of shoes you can wear if you have plantar fasciitis (and put you at risk for developing the condition if you don't have it yet!).

Walking or standing barefoot puts excessive strain on the plantar fascia. The absence of cushioning and shock absorption exposes the already tender tissue to impact and pressure from the ground. This can exacerbate the inflammation, leading to heightened pain and a prolonged recovery period.

Wear supportive shoes and orthotics

Every time your heel hits the ground as you walk or run, you place a significant amount of tension on the fascia. A cushioned shoe or an orthotic (shoe insert) reduces the tension and prevents tears from forming.

In the ongoing quest for relief from plantar fasciitis, Skechers shoes emerge as a viable option for many individuals seeking comfort and support. However, the suitability of Skechers for plantar fasciitis ultimately depends on factors such as foot type, severity of symptoms, and personal preferences.

Put on your shoes as soon as you get out of bed. Going barefoot or wearing slippers may make your pain worse.

Why do my feet hurt after wearing Crocs? ›

Why? Crocs don't secure the heel - like flip flops crocs won't keep your heel in place; when that happens you're going to grip with your toes which can lead to tendinitis, worsening of existing foot problems, and nails issues. Crocs are not supportive - crocs are made out of resin which is very bendable.

With this in mind, if your goal is to relieve pain in the heel of the foot, especially due to plantar fasciitis, wearing Crocs is a good choice. High arch Crocs are supportive and orthopedic, which makes them a popular choice for many.

Stretching and Physical Therapy

Stretching is one of the best treatments for plantar fasciitis. Stretching should be focused on the plantar fascia and the Achilles tendon. A physical therapist can show you stretching exercises that you can repeat at home several times a day.

Standing for long periods: Spending too much time standing — especially if you're standing on a hard surface or in one position — makes the effects of plantar fasciitis worse.

Wearing the wrong shoes can trigger the onset of your Plantar Fasciitis. For example, flat shoes, which offer no flat support, can put too much stress on your plantar fascia and cause it to tear.

Ill-fitting shoes can worsen your plantar fasciitis woes. Too tight, and they can cause pressure and friction on the already irritated fascia. Too loose, and your foot may slide around, causing strain. It's a Goldilocks situation – the fit needs to be just right.