Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain — and one of the most common reasons people start looking for better insoles. Here's what it is, why it happens, and what usually helps.
What is plantar fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, from the heel to the base of the toes. It supports your arch and acts a bit like a shock absorber. Plantar fasciitis is irritation of this tissue, usually where it attaches to the heel bone.
Common symptoms
- Stabbing pain under the heel, often worst with the first steps in the morning
- Pain after standing up from sitting
- Pain that eases with gentle movement, then returns after long periods on your feet
- Tenderness along the arch or at the front of the heel
If the morning pattern sounds familiar, read Morning Heel Pain: Why Your First Steps Hurt the Most.
What causes it?
Plantar fasciitis is generally linked to repeated strain on the tissue. Common factors include long hours standing on hard floors, running or high-impact exercise, tight calf muscles, flat feet or high arches, extra body weight, and shoes with little cushioning or support. It often shows up alongside heel spurs — see Heel Spur vs. Plantar Fasciitis.
What usually helps
Most people improve with conservative care, built around reducing the load on the heel and letting the tissue settle:
- Cushioning under the heel — cushioned insoles soften every step and are one of the most common recommendations
- Stretching — calves and the sole of the foot; try our 5 gentle stretches
- Supportive shoes — cushioned heel, firm heel counter, some arch support
- Rest and ice — cut back on aggravating activities and ice the heel after long days
If pain lasts several weeks, a podiatrist may suggest physical therapy, night splints, orthotics or other treatment.
Take the load off your heel
Solearo 4D Comfort Support Insoles are designed to reduce the pressure on your heel through the day: a padded zone under the heel, a 4D cloud foam base that spreads pressure across the footbed, and six gentle massage nodes under the forefoot. Trim them to fit the shoes you already own and try them for 30 days under our Comfort Guarantee.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor or podiatrist if heel pain lasts more than a few weeks, is severe, follows an injury, or comes with swelling, redness or numbness.
This article is for general information only and isn't medical advice. Solearo insoles are a comfort product, not a medical device.