Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain and stiffness in the heel, which can make it difficult to perform daily activities. For many office workers, this can be a particularly frustrating problem, as it can impact their ability to work and maintain a professional appearance. However, choosing the correct shoes can make a big difference in preventing or alleviating plantar fasciitis symptoms.
In this blog, we will discuss the impact and symptoms of plantar fasciitis, its impact on office workers, and how to choose the correct shoes to maintain both your foot health and professional look.
How does plantar fasciitis affect office workers?
Plantar fasciitis can have a significant impact on an office worker’s ability to perform their job, as it can really affect your general mobility. The pain and stiffness associated with plantar fasciitis can make it difficult to stand or walk for long periods of time, which is often necessary for an office environment. Think of those long meetings, walking to and from different departments, etc.
This can lead to reduced mobility and discomfort, which can affect an individual’s productivity and overall job performance. In addition, plantar fasciitis can potentially lead to you missing work completely, as the pain and discomfort may make it too difficult. By choosing the correct shoes, and with a treatment plan from a podiatrist, you can get back to feeling your best.
From the boardroom to the breakroom: How to stay comfortable.
When it comes to choosing the correct shoes for plantar fasciitis in the office, or any work environment, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, the shoes should provide ample support and cushioning for your feet. This can help prevent or alleviate plantar fasciitis symptoms and keep feet comfortable during long periods of standing or walking.
When looking for shoes that meet these criteria, it may be helpful to look for shoes with the following features:
- A firm and supportive heel counter to help stabilise the foot and prevent overstretching of the plantar fascia.
- A cushioned insole or orthotic insert to provide additional support and shock absorption for the foot.
- A rocker sole or curved shape can help to promote a natural rolling motion of the foot and alleviate pressure on the heel.
- A wide toe box to allow for natural movement and accommodate any swelling of the feet.
The importance of the correct fit.
One of the most crucial factors in managing plantar fasciitis is having the correct fit for your feet, whether you are buying footwear for work, the gym, or anything in-between. Getting the correct fit allows your feet to relax, reducing stress on the plantar fascia and reducing pain. This applies not just to office workers, but to anyone suffering from plantar fasciitis and its symptoms.
Also, if you are buying a more supportive shoe to help ease your plantar fasciitis pain, the shoe will not be able to function correctly if the shoe is the wrong size, or an incorrect fit. Not to mention, the support will be in the wrong place!
Finding balance. It's not always black and white!
When it comes to plantar fasciitis, the correct shoes can make a big difference in preventing or alleviating symptoms. Shoes that provide proper support and cushioning can help reduce the strain on the plantar fascia, which can help prevent or alleviate heel pain and stiffness. However, for office workers, finding the perfect pair of shoes that provide both the necessary support and a professional look can be challenging. In these cases, it’s important to consider the functionality of your footwear and prioritise the features that are most important for your daily activities.
For example, if you spend a lot of your day sitting at your desk, you may not need to prioritise the support and cushioning of your shoes as much as you would if you were standing or walking all day. In this case, you can focus on finding shoes that provide the necessary support and cushioning while you are standing or walking, and opt for more comfortable and less supportive options when you are sitting at your desk. This can help prevent or alleviate plantar fasciitis symptoms while also allowing you to maintain a professional appearance in the office.
So, what are the best brands?
There are brands out there that can give you both the support to relieve symptoms, and also the style to feel comfortable and confident. You can dress to impress, but also wear something that will support your feet and help ease pain, not make it worse.
Ecco.
Ecco is a brand that offers high-quality men’s and women’s shoes that are perfect for the office. Known for their durability and comfort, Ecco shoes are a great option for those with plantar fasciitis who need both support and a professional look. One of the standout features of Ecco shoes is their removable insoles, which allow you to use your own orthotics for added support and cushioning. This makes them a versatile option for those with plantar fasciitis, as you can customise the fit and support to your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for dress shoes, loafers, or boots, Ecco has a range of options that can provide the necessary support and cushioning for those with plantar fasciitis.
Waldlaufer.
Waldlaufer is a German brand known for its high-quality shoes. One of the standout features of Waldlaufer shoes is their removable insole, which allows you to use your own orthotics for added support and relief from conditions like plantar fasciitis. In addition to their comfort and functionality, Waldlaufer shoes also have a stylish design made from high-quality materials that makes them suitable for wearing to the office. Overall, Waldlaufer is a great choice for those who prioritise both style and comfort in their footwear.
Xsensible.
Xsensible is a Dutch brand known for its comfortable and stylish shoes. They’re less of a traditional style and more of a modern outlook on how smart shoes should look. Their shoes are designed with removable insoles and extra cushioning in the heel and forefoot, to help alleviate pressure points and support your feet. This makes them perfect for those who want to look sharp in a smart-casual outfit while enjoying the comfort of orthotics and extra cushioning. In addition to their functionality, Xsensible shoes are also known for their modern and fashionable design, making them a great choice for those who want to look good and feel good in their footwear.
Final thoughts.
Plantar fasciitis can be a painful and debilitating condition, especially for office workers who spend long hours on their feet. Fortunately, there are many shoe brands that offer stylish options for office wear that also provide the support and cushioning necessary to help alleviate pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
If you’re looking for your next pair of office shoes, we recommend booking a free personal shopping appointment with one of our shoe-fitters.
It can be scheduled at your own convenience, and you will benefit from the valuable advice that will change the way that you shop for footwear.
