Any recommendations for best trainers for plantar fasciitis sufferers

[Foxes1961]

I was wondering if anyone on this marvellous forum can help with any advice for a PF sufferer. I mainly suffer from pain in my heels which occurs first thing in the morning but eases once I am up and about and doesn't affect me when I run just afterwards. I have been looking at better trainers with more support in arches and cushioning in the heels. If anyone else has had the same problem and can offer any help or advice I would be very grateful. Saucony Guide range looks goods, any experience of these trainers anyone?

I am hooked on running now and I don't want anything to get in my way

[ShashHR Graduate]

I have the same problem and while I haven't found the full answer as I still suffer after every run, I thinking eased the problem by removing the insoles and replacing with Physica insoles. They are available to buy on eBay for £10 and have arch support and heel cushioning. They are more robust from the ones available I most shops.

There are stretches and exercises you can do to help too but I haven't found them to make much difference personally.

Good luck and if you find the solution, please let me know.

[Foxes1961 Graduate in reply to ShashHR]

Thanks ShashHR, it is so frustrating isn't it glad the insoles helped you, I will get some and see if it helps me. I have tried the exercises but must admit I havent kept up doing them 3 times a day so must try harder If I come across a 'miracle cure' you'll be the first to know

[PetrinaB Graduate]

I went to a "proper" running shop. I explained that I need really good cushioning (cancer in pelvis and sternum) and they suggested Hoka One One brand of shoe. They look bonkers- almost platform sole depth of cushioning- but they are supporting and comfortable ! I'll stick with them from now on. I'm told that ultra marathon runners favour them!

[Foxes1961 Graduate]

Thanks PetrinaB, glad the Hoka One's worked for you. I have been to a running shop and had gait analysis done but as I am size 8.5/9 depending on the make they only had a couple of shoes I could try and I didn't find one that suited me. So back to trawling the internet for me!

[Millsie-J Graduate]

I had severe PF, steroid injections in each did nothing. Long term physio eventually helped. Speaking from my experience and the current situation where during the past 18 months i now run with no pain: heel to toe drop of 12 mm is recommended for PF sufferers. Mine are actually 10mm , i always have 10mm, never less. They suit me fine and i have no recurring problems from running. You need to get a gait analysis at an independent running shop to get the right shoe for you ( just seen you have had one). But buying shoes on line without having tried them is a gamble. My road shoes are size and half bigger, my trail are two sizes bigger.

Also, never, ever wear completely flat shoes, and flip flops are an absolute no no.

Heel lift and drop exercises on the bottom stair will help tremendously. 3 x5 (done slowly) repeated 3times. Then three times a day.

Good luck

Ps dont forget to look at mens shoes too but these usually come in D fit as standard. ....,... i have wide feet so these suit me well, very few makers of wide fit ladies shoes.

[Foxes1961 Graduate in reply to Millsie-J]

Great advice, thanks very much for that, very helpful

[LonelyWalker Graduate]

Hoka One One Clifton 3 runners have been my saviour when the pain has creeped back. Once you've tried them you won't go back!

Runners Need have certain colours for £70 at the moment, absolute bargain...

[Foxes1961 Graduate in reply to LonelyWalker]

Thank you i'll check them out.

[nurseljh Graduate]

Asics Nimbus 19 helped me so so much

[179monmou]

I've had PF for just over two years now. I've found yoga to be invaluable in keeping it in check. Lots of asana to stretch the feet. Starting c25k tomorrow, will be my first 'run' in two years. Fingers crossed I don't get a flare up.

[Foxes1961 Graduate]

Hi, thanks for your reply. I am doing yoga and I have found some improvement in the pain in my heels. I don't actually get any pain whilst running it is always the morning after and eases during the day. It seems it is a very common complaint!

I hope your run went well for you.