Heel Pain

Definition of Heel Pain

Heel pain is a common condition in which weight bearing on the heel causes extreme discomfort.

Apex’s health-conscious footwear provides relief from heel pain using innovative materials and shoe design. Apex shoes are designed to provide superior shock absorption and alleviate pain from repetitive stress. In addition, Apex shoes are designed to control pronation and prevent stretching and inflammation of foot muscles to reduce pain. Each shoe includes contoured inserts that may be removed to accommodate prefabricated or custom inserts to achieve the perfect fit. For additional relief from heel pain, Apex has developed the most innovative suite of prefabricated orthotics available anywhere. 

Best Shoes for Heel Pain

Best Men’s Shoes for Heel Pain: Men's Lace Walking Shoe - Black

Best Women's Shoes for Heel Pain: Women's Boss Runner Active Shoe - X-Last - Silver/Sea Blue

Best Dress Shoes for Heel Pain: Women's Dress Shoe Petals Janice - Pewter | Men's Cap Toe Oxford Dress Shoe Lexington - Black

Best Walking Shoes for Heel Pain: Women's Lace Walking Shoe - V-Last - White/Periwinkle | Men's Lace Walking Shoe V Last - White/Blue

Best Hiking Shoes for Heel Pain: Women's Trail Runner Active Shoe - Sierra Gray/Purple | Men's Ariya - Hiking Boot - Brown

Best Work Shoes for Heel Pain: Women's Dress Shoe Petals Janice - Black | Men's Boss Runner Active Shoe - Black

Best Insoles for Heel Pain: A-Wave Orthotic Support Insole Unisex

Best Slipper for Heel Pain: Unisex Orthopedic Moccasin Slipper Camel

Cause of Heel Pain

There are two different categories of heel pain. The first is caused by over-use repetitive stress which refers to a soreness resulting from too much impact on a specific area of the foot. This condition, often referred to as "heel pain syndrome," can be caused by shoes with heels that are too low, a thinned out fat pad in the heel area, or from a sudden increase in activity. Plantar fasciitis, a very common diagnosis of heel pain, is usually caused from a biomechancial problem, such as over-pronation (flat feet). The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom surface of the foot, from the heel through the midfoot and into the forefoot. Over-pronation can cause the plantar fascia to be excessively stretched and inflamed, resulting in pain in the heel and arch areas of the foot. Often the pain will be most intense first thing in the morning or after a prolonged period of rest. The pain will gradually subside as the day progresses.

Treatment and Prevention of Heel Pain

To properly treat heel pain, you must absorb shock, provide cushioning and elevate the heel to transfer pressure. This can be accomplished with a heel cup, visco heel cradle, or an orthotic designed with materials that will absorb shock and shear forces. When the condition is pronation related (usually plantar fasciitis), an orthotic with medial posting and good arch support will control the pronation and prevent the inflammation of the plantar fascia. Footwear selection is also an important criteria when treating heel pain. Shoes with a firm heel counter, good arch support, and appropriate heel height are the ideal choice.