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The 11 Best Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spur Relief Products Available

Insoles, heel cups, massage balls, and more.

Collage of three of the Best Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spur Relief Products on a yellow patterned background

Verywell / Chloe Jeong

If your days begin and end with pain at the bottom of your heel, then it’s possible you’re struggling with persistent plantar fasciitis. A type of inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament on the bottom of the foot, plantar fasciitis affects approximately 2 million people every year.

Activities like sports, running, or standing for extended periods of time put strain on the heel, all of which can cause plantar fasciitis, says William Spielfogel, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist and medical advisor to The Good Feet Store. Luckily, there are products that can offer support.

When looking for a plantar fasciitis device, consider different wearables and therapeutic devices, such as insoles and stretchers that can help you soothe the inflammation. We researched dozens of plantar fasciitis devices and evaluated them for materials, price, and effectiveness. We even tested one product, the best insole pick, to see how well it performed in the real world.

A board-certified internal medicine physician from our Review Board also reviewed the claims in this article for medical accuracy surrounding plantar fasciitis and heel pain, and how to evaluate products to relieve these conditions.

Best Insole

Walk-Hero Comfort and Support Plantar Fasciitis Insoles

Amazon Walk-Hero Comfort and Support Plantar Fasciitis Insoles

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Support
    4/5
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Pain Relief
    5/5
  • Breathability
    3/5
  • Value
    3.8/5
Pros
  • Shock-absorbing

  • All-day comfort

  • Compatible with different types of shoes

Cons
  • Not super breathable

If you spend hours on your feet all day and suffer from plantar fasciitis and heel pain, a pair of insoles for your work shoes is a must. These insoles from Walk-Hero are made with shock-absorbing silicone material that reduces pressure on the bottom of the foot while relieving existing soreness. The deep heel cup on the insole also maintains the correct foot position, which protects the heel from heavier, jarring landings. 

The insoles fit comfortably inside walking shoes, casual hiking shoes, work shoes, and more. In fact, when we tested the best insoles, this pick came out on top as one of our favorites for its overall versatility in all types of shoes—especially work boots. But you should know that they do take up some room in your shoes, causing some overheating and excess sweating, so we would not recommend them if your shoes are already on the tighter side.

During wear-testing, we loved how comfortable and supportive our feet felt in Walk-Hero's Insoles. Plus, they helped to relieve knee, shin, and ankle pain, even after a full day of wear. If you're looking for a pair of insoles to help support your plantar fasciitis or heel spur, we love this pick.

Best Heel Cup

Heel That Pain Heel Seats

Heel That Pain Heel Seats

Amazon

Pros
  • Supportive and comfortable

  • Moisture-wicking

  • Good arch support

  • Helps with motion control

Cons
  • Too thick for some

  • Attracts lint

If you prefer the feel and fit of heel cups in your shoes as opposed to full-length insoles, it’s hard to beat Heel That Pain Heel Seats. These are designed by doctors to help realign the plantar fascia ligament, as well as to provide both cushion and therapeutic acupressure to the heel in order to relieve pain and prevent it from recurring in the future. They are made with an extra-firm gel that provides continuous support for folks who spend hours on their feet each day.

These heel cups come in four different sizes to fit every shoe with backing, and their anti-slip surface wicks away sweat and excessive moisture. What’s more, they come with a 120-day “No Questions Asked” manufacturer return and refund policy, so you really have nothing to lose in giving them a try.

Best Runner-Up Heel Cup

Tuli's Heavy Duty Gel Heel Cup

Tuli's Heavy Duty Gel Heel Cup

Amazon

Pros
  • Durable cushioning

  • Good shock absorption

  • Easy to use

Cons
  • May pick up lint from socks

  • Don’t work for sandals

These heel cups provide top performance, foot protection, comfortable cushion, and gel flexibility all at the same time. They are twice as thick as standard Tuli heel cups, but they still fit in most active shoes and work boots. The gel’s latex-free waffle design absorbs shock and returns impact energy naturally found in your feet, supporting the natural alignment of your feet, knees, hips, and back. These are a good choice to wear with running shoes for bad knees.

These heel cups are ideal for people who participate in an activity that involves heavy foot pounding or have a job that requires standing for long periods of time.

Best for Nighttime Use

Alpha Medical Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint

Alpha Medical Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint

Amazon

Pros
  • Very sturdy and durable

  • Breathable

  • Washable cover

  • Comfortable padding

Cons
  • Requires adjustment period

  • Not easy to put on

Sleeping with your foot in a plantar fasciitis splint may help encourage the flexion (or gentle stretching) of your Achilles tendon and plantar fascia ligament while in a resting state, though more research is needed. This position helps reduce inflammation and prevent muscle contractions that further tighten and agitate these areas, bringing relief to the bottoms of your feet when you awake in the morning. 

This splint is sturdy, but it’s also lightweight, low-profile, and breathable, making it surprisingly comfortable to sleep in after a few nights of adjusting to the passive stretching. The interior is lined with soft foam, and the padded external straps keep your foot secure but not overly restricted. The padding features a washable Lycra covering that keeps cool against your skin while you sleep. This is a good choice if during the day you need to wear an insole, such as an insole for flat feet.

Best for Arch Support

SB SOX Compression Foot Sleeves

SB SOX Plantar Fasciitis Relief Socks (1 Pair) for Women & Men - Best Compression Sleeves for All Day Wear with Foot/Arch Support for Pain Relief (Black, Medium)

Amazon

Pros
  • Lightweight compression

  • Allows for good mobility

  • Easy to use

  • Breathable and wicking fabric

Cons
  • May feel bulky with socks on

  • May run small

Compression support along the arch and heel is often effective in relieving pain associated with plantar fasciitis, as it improves blood circulation that carries oxygen into the foot and lactic acid buildup out of the foot. These foot sleeves—which really look more like socks—are a top choice of doctors and trainers alike for foot pain relief that doesn’t compromise your mobility. 

They are form-fitting and come in four different sizes to ensure that you provide your foot the amount of compression support it needs. They are also lightweight and can be worn with any type of shoe and under a pair of socks.

Finally, they are made from breathable fabric that both wicks moisture away and resists odor-causing bacteria. Some users choose to wear them to bed in lieu of a splint, finding that they provide similar overnight pain relief.

Best for Cold Therapy

Bodyprox Cold & Hot Therapy Wrap

Bodyprox Cold & Hot Therapy Wrap

Amazon

Pros
  • Cold therapy and compression

  • Can use for other body parts

  • Reusable

  • Can be used for heat therapy

Cons
  • May not work for small feet

  • Need to put a towel in between wrap and skin

Cold therapy is an excellent way to reduce swelling and inflammation, but it can be tough to find a cold pack that sits comfortably along the bottom of your foot without sliding out of place.

This multi-use option from Bodyprox is one of the few that not only stays put but also utilizes a gel pack that stays cold. The wrap itself offers a little bit of compression as well, further relieving plantar fasciitis-related pain by lifting the plantar fascia tissue.

This reusable pack can also be heated for other muscle relief efforts, and the adjustable straps easily secure it on your arm, wrist, elbow, and ankle as needed. Consider it a budget-friendly first aid essential worth having in your home. Just remember to practice cold therapy correctly when soothing the bottoms of your feet—ten to 20 minutes at a time several times throughout the day.

Best Massager

TheraFlow Foot Massage Roller

TheraFlow Foot Massage Roller

Amazon

Pros
  • Convenient and easy to use

  • Massages both feet at same time

  • Inexpensive

  • Portable and durable

Cons
  • Doesn’t always stay in place

  • Works best for arch, not heel

Unwind from long days with the assistance of this effective foot massager from TheraFlow. It uses two independent rollers, so you can massage both of your feet at the same time. What’s more, its various nubs and ridges are specifically designed to help knead, stimulate, and relax soft tissue in your feet, effectively relieving the tension felt in your arches and toward your heels. 

The massager is lightweight, making it easy to relocate throughout your home depending on where you want to use it, and it even fits easily in a backpack for traveling. If you struggle with plantar fasciitis, consistent foot therapy is a key to resolving the source of your pain, and this massager makes it easy and enjoyable.

Best Massage Ball

Master of Muscle Massage Ball

Master of Muscle Massage Ball

Amazon

Pros
  • Provides effective massage

  • Portable

  • Convenient and easy to use

  • Inexpensive

Cons
  • May hurt a bit at first

  • May not work for other body parts

This small yet extremely effective massage ball can be a powerful tool in your plantar fasciitis pain relief arsenal. Made of dense, firm rubber, it provides a stimulating massage and releases tension in the plantar fascia. Using the rubber spikes, you can focus on specific areas of your feet that are tight and get some relief.  

“Massage works best after a shower, so everything is soft and warmed up,” says Jackie Sutera, DPM, a podiatrist, and Vionic Innovation Lab Member. “To massage the arch, think of a tic-tac-toe board and massage going up and down the arch vertically, then across horizontally from the ball of the foot to the heel. This provides a fascial release, which can be very helpful in relieving pain and inflammation.”

If you don’t have time or money for professional massage appointments, you’ll appreciate this massage ball’s ease of use. Compact and portable, it’s easy to toss in your gym bag, backpack, or work bag, so you can roll out your foot before tackling your daily routine.

Best Socks

Feetures Plantar Fasciitis Relief Sock

Feetures Plantar Fasciitis Relief Sock

Amazon

Pros
  • Convenient

  • Lifetime guarantee

  • Moisture-wicking

  • Comfortable compression

Cons
  • More expensive than other socks

  • Run a little small

Relief from plantar fasciitis is as easy as putting on socks, thanks to this pair from Feetures. They provide targeted compression in three different areas of the foot to help ease heel and arch pain. Made with synthetic performance fibers, the socks wick away sweat, keeping your feet dry and blister-free.

Whether you want to wear them for running, walking, or while you’re sleeping for nighttime pain relief, they’re a convenient way to alleviate plantar fasciitis symptoms. Like all Feetures socks, this pair comes with a lifetime guarantee, so you can feel confident about the quality and durability. They’re available in four different sizes to offer the right fit and amount of compression.

How We Selected and Tested the Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spur Relief Products

To find the best plantar fasciitis and heel spur relief products on the market, we first spoke with two experts to learn more about these conditions and what type of products will provide the best support:

Then, we scoured the internet for the best-selling relief products from the most popular and trusted brands. We evaluated each product for purpose, cushioning and support, and overall quality. Paying special attention to how much each product costs, we determined whether or not it is worth its price. We also pulled one product, Walk-Hero's Comfort and Support Plantar Fasciitis Insoles, from our recent insoles test in The Verywell Testing Lab where we wear-tested the insoles in our Lab and then for several weeks in our regular routines—evaluating and rating each one on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for support, comfort, pain relief, breathability, and overall value.

We used our expert interviews, extensive research, and thorough testing to determine our final list of recommendations for the best plantar fasciitis and heel spur relief products.

What to Look for in Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spur Relief Products

Purpose

Before choosing a product for relief from plantar fasciitis, you should consider your specific needs and preferences. If you only have pain first thing in the morning, you may want a massage or stretching tool to help warm up and loosen the plantar fascia and your calf muscles. For people who are on their feet all day, compression socks and sleeves are convenient and easy to get pain relief. Fitness walkers and runners may want to get insoles that are best suited for active people.

Cushioning and Support

If you’re currently dealing with plantar fasciitis or worried about a recurrence, wearing an insole or heel cup that provides good support, cushioning, and shock absorption, especially in the heel area, can make a big difference, according to Dr. Spielfogel. Cushioning not only helps with pain relief but can also prevent further inflammation and improve foot stability. Support in the arch and ankle area should be firm but flexible.

Quality

Look for high-quality products from trusted brands that have a proven track record. Consult the American Podiatric Medical Association’s list of highly-rated foot health products that have received their Seal of Acceptance/Approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do I permanently get rid of plantar fasciitis?

    Most people who have plantar fasciitis recover in several weeks or months with conservative treatment, including rest, icing the affected area, and regular at-home stretching. Doing calf stretches, such as a downward dog yoga pose, a few times a day can help keep plantar fasciitis at bay. Stretching first thing in the morning is crucial, too.

    “After periods of rest, the plantar fascia and Achilles tighten up and when you put weight down without warming up, it starts the inflammation cycle all over again,” says Dr. Sutera. “Before getting out of bed, do a calf stretch in bed by extending your leg, locking your knee, and then using a belt or shirt looped around your ball of foot. Pull your foot back to stretch your calf, which also stretches your plantar fascia.”

    Wearing supportive shoes or insoles is an easy, non-invasive way to help alleviate pain and minimize the strain on the plantar fascia.

    If the underlying cause for your plantar fasciitis is something that you can’t change, such as flat feet, permanent recovery may be more difficult. You can continue to treat the symptoms with at-home remedies but may need treatment from a physical therapist or podiatrist.

    “A cortisone injection could also be effective but if symptoms persist, surgery may be needed,” says Dr. Spielfogel.

  • What aggravates plantar fasciitis?

    Some people, especially those with flat feet or high arches, are more prone to plantar fasciitis than others. “Plantar fasciitis can be caused by and aggravated by a sudden increase in activity, an increase in body weight, improper shoes, overpronation, fat pad atrophy, tight Achilles tendons, as well as other issues,” says Dr. Sutera.

  • Should I go barefoot with plantar fasciitis?

    “Going barefoot with plantar fasciitis is not advisable, as the plantar fascia will not be properly supported,” says Dr. Spielfogel. “It's best to walk with adequate support when having plantar fasciitis so that the condition does not worsen.”

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a seasoned health writer, Alena Hall understands how important it is to know exactly what you’re getting in a product intended for medical use. Over the years, she has reviewed dozens of products, from athletic recovery aids to condition-specific products to homeopathic essential oils, to help readers like you discover products that can help you live your best life.

Additional reporting by Christine Luff

Certified running coach and fitness writer Christine Luff has spent years researching, testing, and recommending fitness and athletic products and knows that the right gear can tremendously improve performance and comfort.

9 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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